Bath Life – issue 348

Dining/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 348 / 15 – 29 SEPTEMBER 2017 / £3

@BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

FINE & SCANDI ISSUE 348 / 15 – 29 SEPTEMBER 2017 / HEART AND HOME

EXPLORE THE SCANDINAVIAN SHOPS OF BATH

BEST OF FALL AUTUMN FASHION

A TASTE OF THE CITY THE GREAT BATH FEAST IS HERE

ON THE INSIDE STEP INTO THE EXQUISITE WARLEIGH MANOR

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 348 /15 – 29 SEPTEMBER 2017

Pure and simple

120

MANOR OF THE MOMENT

Take a look inside the wonderful Warleigh Manor House

No one, in our opinion, does serene and quietly chic as effortlessly as the Scandinavians, which is why we’re looking to them for inspiration – not just for our interiors, but for food, fashion and music too. Discover 19 of Bath’s businesses influenced, in some way, by Northern Europe on page 36. You’ll notice that our property showcase on page 120 is also designed with cosy Scandi minimalism, soothing colours, and natural materials and texture in mind. And our columnist Philippa May gets in on the action with her thoughts on decluttering, whitewashing and simplicity on page 29.

We’ve also got the impending highlights of the 16-day gastronomic food fest, The Great Bath Feast.

We shine a spotlight on the stars of the local culinary scene stepping up to the plate, as well as the celebrity chefs – from GBBO’s Nadiya Hussain to comedic cook Hardeep Singh Kohli – on hand to ensure it’s truly great. Flick straight to page 74 and get planning what you’re going to see and where you’re going to eat.

Also, this month has and will see New York, London, Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks and, with them, plenty of weird and wonderful sartorial inspiration for your new season wardrobe. Whether you’re embracing futuristic shine or confident hues, we’ve got a refreshingly wearable autumn selection on page 94.

Elsewhere, we tuck into some of the city’s best tapas restaurants (page 78); shop for National Sewing Month accessories (page 90); and dine at the newly opened The Rusty Stag (page 72). Plenty to work up a decent appetite, don’t you think?

See you in two weeks when we celebrate our 15th anniversary of Bath Life!

Lisa Evans, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @BathLifeMag Follow us on Instagram: @bathlifemag

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FEATURES / ISSUE 348 / 15 – 29 SEPTEMBER 2017

PHOTO COURTESY OF HAY, MILSOM STREET

From interiors to chic jewellery styles, discover the abundance of Scandinavian-inspired shops in Bath

36

SCANDI CHIC

Discover the understated elegance of Scandinavian style

138 Bath Lives

We talk to Homes Under the Hammer’s Martin Roberts

REGULARS / ISSUE 348 / 15 – 29 SEPTEMBER 2017

THE ARTS 47 Arts intro Raise a glass to an exhibition of Bath’s traditional pubs

48 What’s on Our guide to the best music, theatre, events and exhibitions in and around the city

94

M E ET T H E T EAM Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Assistant editor Samantha Walker sam.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors David Flatman, Nic Bottomley, Philippa May and Angela Mount Group advertising manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Sophie Speakman sophie.speakman@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Michael Stevens michael.stevens@mediaclash.co.uk

59 Bookshelf Nic Bottomley on the Bath Children’s Literature Festival

FOOD 72 Restaurant

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk

Plenty of surprises at The Rusty Stag in Broughton Gifford

74 The Great Bath Feast The city’s foodie festival is back

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Commercial director Steve Hawkins steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk

78 Tapas Allow these glorious little dishes whet your appetite

81 Wine Italian tipples from drinks expert Angela Mount

Bath Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash

85 Food & drink news

© All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

Swoon Gelato, Bar + Block and The Great Bath Feast

Autumn is here, and so are the new-season trends, such as this all-denim number from Found, Bath

SHOPPING 89 Shopping intro

Jewellery inspired by lava, from local designer Emma Aitchison

BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

90 Editor’s choice

111 Business insider

A nod to National Sewing Month

News, views and interviews from the region’s professionals

11 16 27

94 Fashion From futuristic shine to animalprint touches

Spotlight Society A man’s world

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury.

We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help.

Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

PROPERT Y 120 Property showcase A manor house from heaven in Warleigh, Bathford

On the cover The magnificent entrance hall of Warleigh Manor House in Bathford. For the full feature, turn to page 120

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

The Hoosiers are still Worried About Ray

CONCERTS

POP ’TIL YOU DROP Indie chart-toppers The Hoosiers will play in Bath on 20 October, a decade after their album A Trick to Life reached the top of the charts.

The debut album is known for the catchy classics Worried About Ray and Goodbye Mr A, with the hits still packing out dance floors 10 years on.

But, despite the album’s success, their second project failed, with the band’s frontman Irwin Sparkes saying The Illusion of Safety struggled from the start.

The record company wanted hits, with creative differences appearing.

“There’s an art to writing under those conditions, but it wasn’t one that worked for us,” says Irwin. “It exacts a toll on too many writers. You give up too much if you do that.”

The band took back creative control for The News From Nowhere and Secret Service, with both albums seeing the band return to its best.

“Doing it on our own terms and actually having a proper say in it, felt wonderful,” Irwin adds.

“We had nothing to lose, but a lot to prove.”

For more: Komedia 7pm, £15; www.komedia.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT

Seeing red: Vivien Leigh’s jacket

Sore feet are forgotten after finishing the Bath Half

BATH HALF

Research Unit with a time of eight hours 54 minutes, ahead of Royds Withy King Solicitors and the Team Jackie charity.

Andrew Taylor, race director says, “The Bath Half sells out each year and 500 places are specifically reserved for entrants representing business teams that are competing for the coveted men’s and women’s trophies.

“At the 2017 event, just over 40 teams entered the Corporate Challenge, representing companies from diverse organisations and business sectors, including solicitors, architects, entertainment, engineering,

DRESSING UP

telecoms, retail, construction, and many others. In total, these 2017 Corporate Challenge teams raised an admirable £97,000 for a wide variety of charities and good causes. Business teams are encouraged to fundraise for the Action Against Child Poverty Campaign or a charity of their own choice.”

The Bath Half Marathon is now in its 36th year, attracting 15,000 runners and an estimated 30,000 spectators.

The 2017 event raised a record sum of £2.25 million for charity. The next race will take place on 4 March, 2018

Hollywood, fur and feathers are up for discussion at the Fashion Museum in Bath.

Movie star Vivien Leigh is the fascinating subject of a Twilight Talk, with author Keith Lodwick discussing the British stage and screen actress on 9 November, drawing on an archive of her letters and diaries at the Theatre Museum Collection at the V&A. Visitors can also see a red embroidered jacket, made for the star in 1948, by Paris couturier Lucien Lelong, as it features in the museum’s History of Fashion in 100 Objects.

The Twilight Talk Fashioned from Nature, on 23 November, will see Edwina Ehrman talk about the fascinating role of fur and feathers in fashion, from the 18th century to the present day.

The V&A curator will focus on the human desire to improve and commodify nature.

For more: www.bathhalf.co.uk

For more: www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

COOL RUNNINGS Businesses can pit themselves against each other as part of the Bath Half Marathon 2018’s Corporate Challenge.

The challenge is designed to foster healthy competition and fitness in the workplace, while raising serious money for charity and good causes.

Bath-based Buro Happold Engineers were the winning men’s team in this year’s Corporate Challenge, with an impressive time of seven hours and 31 minutes, ahead of the Team Jackie charity and CIL Management Consultants from London.

The women’s race was won by Bristol Biomedical

FASHION

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Adventures in party-going

Having a flutter

SCENE

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HIGH FASHION STAKES Ladies’ Day at Bath Racecourse had a very fitting race – its first ever with an all-female field of jockeys.

Jo Hall, executive director at Bath Racecourse says, “Ladies Day has become established as a key date in the local Bath racing and social calendar, and is always eagerly anticipated.”

Over 6,000 people went to the races, with Lindsey Miller, from Bath, the winner of the Best Dressed competition.

Her prize included £1,000 and a Lexus car for the weekend.

Nicci Stavley and Jess Smith

Photos by Dave McLean www.davemclean.co.uk

Victoria Ryan and Lindsay Miller

The prize-winning presentation with judges from Coast, Kiehl’s and Novia

Cheering on the runners Hats off to glamour 16 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Victoria Harris and Georgia Martin

SOCIETY

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Eddie and Katie McDonald, and Jeremy Guscott

Golfing and rugby greats came together for a fundraising event at Cumberwell Park Golf Club last month.

The golf day raised over £15,500 for Dorothy House Hospice Care, and was sponsored by The Marble Works of Bath, with 29 teams of four taking part.

Former rugby players Jeremy Guscott, Jason Leonard, Mike Catt and Craig Chalmers all perfected their swings, with European tour golfers Laurie Canter, Eddie Pepperell and Jordan Smith also on the green.

Our Bath Life columnist David Flatman hosted a Q&A session with the sporting celebrities.

Photos by Pat White

Phil de Glanville, Nigel Holland, David Powell and Ashley Hurst.

Grant Williams, Darren May, Steve Duffy and Tony Payne

Fore!

Matt Snelus, Gareth Rees, Barry Newbury and David Sumsion

Craig Chalmers, Jason Leonard and Matt Powell

18 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Andy Clarke, ‘Chalkie’ Wardle, Graham Pristo and Dan Smith

SOCIETY

FIVE LIVE Colour and style were evident when artists and art lovers alike celebrated five years of 44AD artspace.

A birthday party was held to mark the exciting event, at the gallery’s Abbey Street studio in Bath.

Guests enjoyed two floors of artworks, toe-tapping live entertainment, and refreshments sponsored by Abbey Ales.

SPONSORED BY:

Isobel Romero-Shaw, Dine Romero and Bath MP Wera Hobhouse

Photos by David Shoukry www.englishphotoworks.com

Broose Dickinson and Michael Robson Musician Kerensa performed Neal Howlett and Ash Browne

Ali Gourley

Scarlett Mosnier, Arran Hodgson and Geoff Dunlop

Craig Jenkins and Katie O’Brien Karine Leroux and Angel Greenham

20 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SPONSORED BY:

SOCIETY

TAKE TWO A party to celebrate the opening of another eatery for Corkage took place last month.

Corkage Chapel Row is the sister restaurant to its namesake in Walcot Street, with guests enjoying food and drink served at the lively celebration.

“We offer the same excellent wine and food we’re well known for, but the additional space means we can cater for more guests and create dishes with a bit more theatre,” says co-owner Richard Knighting. “Regulars can look forward to a few surprises on the menu.”

Ted Caron, Bryan Johnson, Alistair Colston, Patrick Mears and Steve Ashworth

Photos by Neil Whitehead

Tom Annear, Martin Woodland and Chris Garratt Attila Hikadi and Angie Perez

Marty Grant and Richard Knighting

Sam Fior and Ange Raczka

Elizabeth Rees and Emma Knighting

Chloe Wiltshire, Lou Kennedy and Kate Webb

22 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Ian Webb and Jethrow Wiltshire

SOCIETY

SPONSORED BY:

FESTIVAL FEVER Move over Glastonbury – The Curfew pub’s Curfest party brought a festival vibe to the city.

The pub had live music, DJs, the Hideout pop-up bar, food and a raffle.

The party saw the end of a month of charity collecting for Dorothy House, by the Cleveland Place pub.

The Curfew’s landlords Dan and Emily Brew

Photos by Philip Shone www.mamaisononline.co.uk

The festival brought out the smiles

Harry and Michelle Jessop raised a toast

Free hugs from Thomas Castley and Emily Goldie

FAST LOVE Fine dining and fine cars were on the menu at an event organised by Bath Audi.

The dealership’s Summer Spark event saw customers enjoy the latest cars, together with food from Lucknam Park’s chef Hywel Jones.

Head of business Julian Drew says, “Michelin-starred food and the commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience matches what we try to deliver to every customer who walks through the door at Bath Audi.”

Perfect hospitality from Bath College students Amy Best and Mollie Walker

Make mine a mocktail

Photos by Matthew Collett

Jack Cook showcasing his butchery skills

Bath Audi’s head of business Julian Drew and Alexandra Duncan 24 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

ON YOUR BIKE Flats has purchased a shiny new toy – an electric mountain bike – in the hopes that being constantly marooned in Bath traffic will no longer be so much of an issue

A

s I sat, totally stationary, on George Street in my car this week, I was reminded that Bath living isn’t always quite so smooth and go-with-the-flow as many idealistic, hypnotised dwellers might profess. Then, once a modicum of forward motion had been achieved, the quest to find a section of tarmac to store said vehicle for an hour or two over lunch presented me with another similarly turgid trudge.

Trapped in that no man’s land in the tunnelled entrance to the Broad Street car park – too far in to back out but in far enough that I, in turn, was thwarting wannabe exiteers – one lady wandered past and, having assessed the situation and decided where all blame ought to lie, declared me a tw*t to her equally disapproving partner, not knowing my window was down. There was a chap ahead of me who was, in fact, causing the issue, but he wasn’t in the sort of vehicle that some people hate. He was in an old, battered Land Rover. As my hand-holding abusers marched on, they made eye contact with him and motioned – you know the way – back to me and rolled their eyes. The scruffy, dishevelled Land Rover driver looked at them as if he had never before experienced human contact. It was beautiful in its accidental rejection of hatred.

At the pay and display machine, it turned out that said scruffbag was indeed better with animals than with people. He did, however, make one astute comment before he wandered back to display: “They only hate you ’cos you got that new motor.

It’s the environment and that.” The fact that my modern engine was doing a fraction of the damage to the environment caused by his 30-year-old diesel chugger had escaped my haters, but Farmer Joe’s observation stuck with me.

I’ll be honest, it’s being constantly marooned in central Bath traffic that has caused me to take action, not climate change.

However, if I can take credit where none is due, then goody. After an exhaustive period of research, I have taken the plunge and got an electric mountain bike. The way I see it, riding this thing isn’t going to prove quite so lethal in Bath as it might in London by virtue of the whole bloody place existing at a standstill.

So I’m safe. And I’ll be nipping in and out of the traffic like a hippopotamus on a penny farthing, so I’ll be on time. And I won’t be puncturing the ozone layer, so I can be smug. And I can pretend it’s actual exercise, so I can be smug again. As far as I can see, this is the only option left to someone who refuses to walk into and home from town (to be fair, I do live at the top of a long, steep hill…).

So until someone sees sense and creates a network of cable cars (they’ll need wifi or I’m not using them), I’ll be taking my new bike whenever I can. Not everything, then, is quite so perfect when it comes to Bath city living, but at least now I can be the tw*tter instead of the tw*ttee.

I’LL BE NIPPING IN AND OUT OF THE TRAFFIC LIKE A HIPPOPOTAMUS ON A PENNY FARTHING

David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman

INSIDE S T O RY

PHILIPPA MAY

NEGATIVE SPACE, LIKE BRIGHT WHITE WALLS OR WASHED WOODEN FLOORS, IS REALLY IMPORTANT

MINIMALISM Hoarders, look away now as we discuss decluttering, whitewashing and simplicity

I

t’s funny how, over time, you seem to accumulate a lot of stuff. I’m no hoarder, and when it comes down to it, I can be brutal for chucking away possessions, yet, recently, I found myself feeling extremely cluttered.

This month, I visited a friend’s new gorgeous Georgian flat and was amazed, as well as quite jealous, of how tidy and minimal it was; in fact, I returned home and immediately made a pile of stuff for the charity shop that had been clogging up shelves and we hadn’t used in years.

I think a lot of people strive, like me, for an effortless life. The idea of everything being balanced and yet cosy can often be tricky,

A Berber rug from Graham & Green is Philippa’s autumnal home essential

but the ones who are really in the know are the Scandinavians, who seem to manage it with flair. Lagom is a word they use that means finding just the right amount, which is a beautiful and typical Scandi approach to life and design. This lovely sentiment can ring throughout the house, but I think it’s particularly important in the bedroom, where peace and sanctuary should really be at the top of the agenda.

In an age of digital immersion, we were very sure that we wanted nothing ‘switched on’ in our bedroom. Phones are turned off and there’s not a television in sight so that it remains a space devoid of distraction, to counteract the busy day, ready to properly relax and recover in. Where else would you turn for soothing interiors that weren’t too minimal or bland than the Scandi movement? Pale greys and milky whites are already favourites of mine, and mixing these with soft linens, cosy sheepskins and French woods makes an abode ripe for relaxation.

Renowned for their simplicity, utility, and beauty, Scandinavian homes have a pure, pared-back style that is centred on warm functionality, clean lines, flawless craftsmanship and understated elegance, and I think, personally, this style is perfect for Bath and its Georgian houses. Negative space, like bright white walls or washed wooden floors, is really important – it allows the eye to rest so that a room reads as interesting and not chaotic.

Playing with textures in your decorating can be just as interesting as playing with colour, and through a recent Bath Pixie App discovery, I found Katherine Fraser, on Walcot Street, whose artisanal weaving in beautiful natural fibres is imaginatively conceived and created with passion, making it a British brand that has a very Scandi ethos.

I’m bringing this trend into the home this season with natural wood and linens from The Fig Store, combined with timeless designs from Hay, all topped off with a pop of green from a big living plant.

Nordic winters are long, dark and brutal – quite like English ones – so it’s time to prepare, and green, leafy perennials are so on trend right now. Not only do they look good but they’re also adept at freshening stale indoor air, which is a real mood-booster in winter.

For the final touch in Scandi-inspired décor, make sure you keep your base cosy; for the ultimate in warmth and style, grab a Berber rug from Graham & Green – your feet will thank you for it.

Philippa May is an interiors enthusiast and the designer and brand creative manager for accessories label Abbott Lyon. Follow her on Instagram @_philippamay_

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TRENDS

FINE & SCANDI

We visit the array of Scandinavian-inspired shops in Bath – from fashion boutiques and homeware stores, to cool cafés and audio companies – and ask their owners how northern European philosophies and habits influence their offerings

By L I SA E VA NS

Achieve the modern monochrome look with Ferm Living’s Danish furniture, available at Woodhouse & Law 36 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

At Resident, which will soon open on Walcot Street, expect to find Scandi-inspired fashion and homeware accessories

W

hen you picture Scandinavian chic, a minimalist home with an uncomplicated colour scheme and cosy accessories may spring to mind, but the trend reaches far further than interiors, as you’ll discover here when we talk to a café owner, a bank manager, a fashion boutique founder and a jewellery maker, whose businesses all reflect the uncluttered style in one way or another.

Scandi Bath

The list could go on far longer than we have room for on these pages, but Scandinavian-inspired shops are everywhere in the city. There are the small, independent shops such as The Fig Store, the interior alone of which will tempt you to redecorate your entire home; and Found (where Danish fashion brands like Baum und Pferdgarten are showcased artistically in the space); and there are the larger stores like Swedish fashion brand COS, and ultra-cool designer Danish furniture retailer Hay. So why are Bath’s business owners influenced by Scandinavian style? And why does

people in Bath want to fill their homes with

products

that remind them there’s a bigger world out there

Bath attract Scandi companies overseas?

David Croft, cruise development specialist at Miles Morgan Travel on New Bond Street Place, believes that, simply, the Scandinavian vibe is en vogue, and it works in Bath where understated elegance, sleek design and clean lines offer terrific contrast to the history we are surrounded by.

Speaking from his “eye-opening, jaw-dropping and awe-inspiring” experience of his many trips to Scandinavia, the definition of its vibe, as far as David sees it, is relaxed and balanced – which he feels translates well in Bath.

“We offer a wide range of Scandinavian coastal cruises – with Hurtigruten for the Northern Lights, and Christmas trips to Lapland being some of our biggest sellers,” he says.

“In Denmark, you have beautiful waterways; northernmost Norway allows you to go into the Arctic Circle; and Finland is a terrific blend of Scandinavian culture and Russian heritage.”

Lucy Drane, store manager at Hay on Milsom Street, feels that Scandinavian design has long been an influence for interiors in the UK, and Bath is no exception, as she explains, “Our building itself is a classic example of Georgian architecture, with very high ceilings and beautiful interior detailing. Danish furniture and Georgian settings will always pair very well together.” 

TRENDS

Pared-back style at Rossiters of Bath

Danish goldsmith Tina Engell, the owner of eponymous jewellery shop on Belvedere, Bath, says Danes are surprised about the hype the UK is giving Scandinavia. “All the stupid books being published about hygge are baffling,” she says. “It really isn’t anything special, it’s just about making simple, small things in life a little nicer – like lighting a candle and being nice to each other. It’s not about expensive cashmere cushions. Darkness during winter means that much time is spent indoors, so good design makes it more pleasant.”

Shaun Houcke, marketing manager of Danish audio company Bang & Olufsen on Fountain Buildings, Bath, believes the trend could grow in popularity, due to the effects of Brexit.

“I think Bathonians feel more European than most,” he says. “The buildings, the culture and fashion all feel more connected to Europe than anywhere else outside of London. With the decision the country has taken to leave the EU, more and more people in Bath will want to fill their homes with products that remind them there’s a bigger world out there.”

SARTORIAL STYLE

We admire the easy breezy way in which Scandinavians can throw an outfit together. Tonal basics, slouchy knits, minimalist pointed flats and simple accessories make for a laid-back yet sophisticated style.

38 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ALLOW THE SPACE OF A ROOM TO SHINE THROUGH AS MUCH AS THE THINGS YOU PUT IN IT

There is an abundance of clothing shops in the city at which you can pick up Scandi brands which can’t be found on the high street; they include Blue Woman and Home – at which you’ll come across adventurous and progressive labels such as Bitte Kai Rand – and Grace & Mabel, where Danish brands such as Ilse Jacobsen and Malene Birger bring a creative angle to contemporary classics. Scandinavian jewellery and accessories stores with an eclectic edge, such as Tina Engell Goldsmiths, also captivate the discerning fashion-lover’s eye too.

“My shop is 100 per cent inspired by Scandinavia,” says Tina Engell, whose designs are based on simplicity, functionality and beauty. “I lived in that part of the world until the age of 29.

It is a very Danish concept to have an open-plan combined workshop and shop. Why should I sit and work in the dark, with all the focus being in the shop area? I want my clients to see where and how I make the jewellery.”

Another northern European-influenced store in which you’ll find stylish accessories – along with homeware and fashion garments – is Resident, which will open as a temporary pop-up shop on Walcot Street at the end of September.

“At the shop, Scandi style has a huge impact, not only in terms of our aesthetic and the brands we stock, but also the approach to our business and the customer service we offer,” says owner w

TRENDS

Clockwise, from below: Blue Women’s Clothing specialises in adventurous styles; Resident is soon popping up in Bath; Tina Engell’s workbench takes centre stage at her jewellery shop

James Borley. “The style is unfussy. It’s all about restraint and using colour, materials and textures sparingly for maximum impact. Some people think Scandi style is all grey and black, but it can be very warm and vibrant too. This can be introduced into the wardrobe easily. Use a simple colour scale, and bring in warmth through texture and different fabrics, but also don’t be afraid to add in pops of colour with accessories and outerwear – a bright pink Rains raincoat over black jeans and a chunky knit is an instant win.

“You can take it to the extreme Acne Studios end and go super minimal with monochrome,” he adds. “Or you can go the other way and bring in natural qualities but still retain that paired-back look. And homeware-wise, it’s a style that suits old Georgian buildings very well, so, for Bath in particular, it’s a great fit. Resist over-cluttering, and allow the space of a room to shine through as much as the things you put in it.”

Snow Ruiz – the founder and director of ethical clothing shop Bibico, on Bartlett Street – explains that her business is partly based upon Nordic values, “They are part of my daily lifestyle. I come from the north of Spain, and from a young age I’ve been educated about the values in life, which, for me, are quite similar to the Scandi ways – that is, simplicity, quality, family, individuality and to love to each other and the world.”

The shop interior itself is clean-lined, neutral,

40 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY TOBY MITCHELL

TRENDS

and complete with wood, copper and living green accents, and the vast shop window brings in an abundance of natural light which brightens the white walls, ensuring that each piece of clothing – all of which are made from natural materials and have simple cuts – stands out on its own.

“Our winter collection is full of cosy knits and soft corduroy dresses and skirts to keep you snug,” says Snow. “You just need classic pieces that you can wear again and again. Play with them, dress them up and down, and you will see how versatile your wardrobe can be.”

TASTE FOR ADVENTURE

When it comes to Scandinavian cooking, hearty, warming, comforting dishes are at the top of the list, as is quality and service. And James Hunter, the director of speciality coffee shop and kitchen Hunter & Sons in Milsom Place, says this is a major motivation for him.

“I love the idea of preservation – using fresh, pickled and fermented ingredients in dishes bring so many different elements to a menu,” he says.

“Utilising the local environment and foraging from the area is important to me. Living off the land while trying not to cause disruption to an ecosystem is one of my personal core beliefs.

“The concept of a coffee shop in general lends itself quite well to Scandi design,” he adds.

“Ours is minimalist with clean lines, sharp edges and a neutral palette, and the bursts of green from the indoor plants break the eye up and give the space a natural, organic feel. I also think that

This page, left to right: Hunter & Sons embraces Scandi menus; Bibico’s laid-back look reflects Nordic fashions

the design allows the space to flow from the day into the evening with relative ease, bridging the gap between the café and the bar. I never wanted to cram as many tables and chairs in here as humanly possible. It would increase covers but it would ruin the comfort level and design on so many levels.”

HAVE YOU HEARD?

IT IS A VERY

DANISH

CONCEPT TO HAVE AN

OPENPLAN

COMBINED WORKSHOP AND SHOP

Founded in Denmark in 1925, Bang & Olufsen has Scandinavia at its very core. Since then, the brand has become a beacon of performance and design excellence through its long-standing craftsmanship tradition and the commitment to high-tech research and development.

“Bang & Olufsen is the oldest audio company in the world, and one of the best known Danish brands of all time,” says Shaun Houcke. “Still at the forefront of domestic technology, it has extended its comprehensive experience with integrated audio and video solutions for the home to other areas such as the hospitality and automotive industries in recent years.

“Consequently, its current product range epitomises seamless media experiences in the home as well as in the car and on the move.”

As for integrating Scandi functionality into the home, Shaun suggests to, “Strip back your room to just want it needs to be. For example, a bedroom is for rest and sleep – not an office, store room or lounge – you just need a bed, chair and table, oh, and maybe a BeoSound 2 to wake you in the morning.” w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

TRENDS

Salcombe Trading’s ethos encourages mixing vintage with contemporary

furniture from Denmark and Sweden which led her to specialise in Scandinavian products in Bath.

“The quality and beauty of the furniture speaks to the heart. Manufactures release new chairs that are created from old designs and these pieces are as fresh today as they were 60 years ago. The chairs are at home in any environment – modern apartment or historic property.”

At The Marmalade House at The Loft on Bartlett Street, there’s a clean, simple, raw, muted palette, which owner Vanessa Sayce says is wellsuited to autumn.

“As summer fades, home styles will start to feature wintry, cosy greys, inky blues and washed willow baskets full of wood for the fire,” she says.

“Soft lighting and scented candles will be on the shopping list, as will faux fur throws, pouffes and fleece chair covers.”

To help people ‘get the look’, Vanessa is launching a new course – run at her farmhouse studios in Kelston – called Colour and Style Your Home, launched in conjunction with Annie Sloan, on how to match colour with fabric and accessories. It includes a deconstruction of colour, advice on how colours can be mixed, and a look at the science behind the traditional colour wheel.

“If I could live in Scandinavia, I would,” she says. “Their philosophy on life, and the importance of personal and family wellbeing is what I aspire to – but it comes to them naturally.

The sense of calmness and order, beauty in the surroundings, and development of ‘self’ – whether it be in consideration of others, or the ability to allow young children to follow less rigorous educational rules and schedules – is inspirational.”

FEEL AT HOME

The abundance of Scandinavian-inspired homewares in Bath simply cannot be ignored, with shops such as The Salcombe Trading Company on Broad Street, and Woodhouse & Law on Bathwick Hill showcasing how the style is done. Some stores are simply stimulated by the trend, whereas others have deep roots within Scandinavia. Take Hay, for example, where the legacy of the design is part of the Danish-born brand’s DNA. “Our aim is to bring good, contemporary design to a broad market,” says Lucy Drane. “Growing up in her parents’ design and furniture store in Jutland, Mette Hay – who helped launch the company in 2002 – was surrounded by Danish design from a young age but has always been fascinated with collecting and curating everyday objects from her travels.”

At the Hay store in Bath, which was the first to open in the UK, you’ll find a team of interior architects and stylists who create a light, relaxed and welcoming space that Lucy says invites customers to enjoy the furniture.

Sue Shannon, who owns furniture and lighting shop Shannon on Walcot Street, agrees that Scandinavian-designed furniture is for life and, like a fine wine, improves with age.

“The designs are timeless,” says Sue, who fell in love with the craftsmanship and history of

HYGGE

HOMES WILL START TO

FEATURE

WINTRY, COSY GREYS, INKY BLUES AND WASHED

WILLOW BASKETS FULL OF WOOD

FOR THE FIRE

A word that defies translation, the undying trend of hygge is something that is meant to be ‘felt’ wholeheartedly, and can be interpreted as cosiness or an absence of clutter or anything that’s emotionally overwhelming.

In the opinion of Salcombe Trading’s co-owner, Michelle Sames, the secret to introducing hygge in the home is by mixing all-natural homeware ingredients together.

“Think everything from wood, leather, linen, wool, slate, steel and glass, to books, logs, antlers, sheepskins and mini pots of succulents,” she says.

“We have spent the last 17 years choosing and selling the best of Scandinavian homeware. Quite simply, the heritage, design and quality of Scandi products can not be faulted.

“Because of my age, there are a large selection of sentimental items in my home which could be a nuisance when I want to update a look, but in Scandinavia it’s fine to mix vintage with uber contemporary,” she adds. “So, an antique chest with a nickel lamp and a linen shade; a tired old chair with a brightly coloured knitted, blanket; and a plain hand-painted bed with vintage pillowcases are all fine. It makes the difference between a show house and a comfy home.” w www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 43

TRENDS

And for Clair Strong, of Clair Strong Interior Design on Walcot Street, some of her favourite projects are those in which she can incorporate a Nordic influence.

“I have personally always been very drawn to minimalist design,” she says. “However, in my work, I have to collaborate with the client to create a look they love, and that doesn’t always mean Scandinavian style. I think of the style as being quite heavily influenced by nature and the landscape. Scandinavian design uses a lot of natural colour schemes and materials, and there’s a strong focus on functionality. It’s very beautiful without being extravagant or excessive.”

And as far as Chloe Temple, the owner and director at Blue Woman and Home at The Loft on Bartlett Street, sees it, hygge is a no-brainer.

“Many of us would love to hibernate or skip winter entirely, but unfortunately this is not an option for us, so what else but to embrace it?”

Courses on Scandi style will soon be running at The Marmalade House

Interior designer Clair Strong is drawn to minimalistic design with pops of colour

CREATURES OF HABIT Swedish National Noomi Mozard of Handelsbanken, Bath, shares a handful of traditions, trends and concepts that Scandinavians live by…

S ILENCE

“Long silent moments with a friend or a family member don’t indicate an awkward silence, but a sign of true friendship instead.”

S PACE

“Sweden is three times the size of the UK with only one fifth of the population. This, combined with allemansrätten (every mans right) which allows us all to access the countryside (treating it with respect), results in a country where the people are very active and focused on the outdoors and nature.”

NUMMERLAP P

“This refers to when you take a number to be served, and in Sweden they are everywhere – from your bank to your train station. You don’t ever have to stand in a queue.”

F IKA

“It means to sit down with hot drink and a snack (often a cinnamon roll) and talk to your friends and colleagues.

In Sweden, the workplace has fika as part of their day.

It allows time to connect and communicate in the team.”

44 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

she says. “Everybody loves the idea of a modern, comfortable, relaxed life which can be expressed through the way we furnish our homes.

“It’s important to have your chill-out zone at home,” she adds. “White ceramics and lots of light are a popular idea in the Scandi world, and here we have beautiful tea light holders in the shape of houses, along with an unusual range of candles and natural cushions in muted colours.”

LAGOM

The Swedish concept of lagom – meaning ‘just the right amount’– is one which Ann-Marie James, buying director at Rossiters of Bath on Broad Street, respects completely. “It’s all about fairness and creating balance in your job and personal life,” she says. “And the concept can be introduced to interiors too. Scandinavian style is characterised by simplicity and minimalism, but this doesn’t mean it has to be boring.

“It makes bold use of colour and functionality to create designs that are unmistakably beautiful as well as useful,” she adds. “Our lighting and furniture collections owe much to the cutting-edge contemporary look of top Danish and Swedish designers. In our interiors department, Swedish wallpaper designs form a significant part of the offering – we particularly love Wonderland by Hanna Werning – and we adore the bold fabrics by Scandi-influenced designer Larsen.”

Noomi Mozard, account manager at Handelsbanken – one of Sweden’s leading banks, founded in 1871 – on Upper Borough Walls adds, “Jokingly, this is what we [people from Sweden] say defines Swedes – to be ‘lagom’, not to be too much or too little. Everything should be lagom, from the amount of milk in your coffee, to your personality.

“This concept also makes an impression on Handelsbanken, where there’s a focus on efficiency and clear goals. Working here means working in a place that understands and values the need for the employee to have a good work-life balance.”

Bathrooms at

No.

5

your local Villeroy & Boch studio Now open | 12a Trim Street, Bath BA1 1HB | 01225 308060 5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JS | 01225 309110 | www.bathroomsatno5.co.uk

Music/theatre/film/more

LAST ORDERS PLEASE

Raise a glass to a striking exhibition of Bath’s traditional pubs from local artist Nick Cudworth. The aptly named Last Orders Please features paintings and prints from many of the city’s landmark watering holes, including Walcot Street’s The Bell, The Larkhall Inn and The Star. They provide a fascinating snapshot – beautifully captured by Nick – of these long-established community pubs.

Derby-born Nick has been an artist for over 35 years, working in oil and pastels, with his landscape, still life and portraiture all equally well-regarded. His creative streak also extends to music and he recorded a number of blues and rock and roll albums on legendary DJ John Peel’s label.

And, if you look around the National Portrait Gallery in London, you’ll spot Nick’s portrait of Bath-based film director Ken Loach hanging in its permanent exhibition.

He was also commissioned to design a set of stamps for the Commonwealth Games.

The exhibition runs until 30 September at his Walcot Street gallery. www.nickcudworth.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 47

16 September – 14 October

Alternative Facts at PhotoBath; The Amazing World of Trees at the BRLSI; How To Decipher Art from Bath Evening Arts

Exhibitions U N TI L 2 4 S E P T E M BE R

ALTERNATIVE FACTS Exhibition looking at how ‘alternative facts’ can be illustrated. 44AD artspace; www.photobath.co.uk

U N TI L 1 OCTOBER

TAPESTRY HERE AND NOW This exhibition celebrates modern tapestry and how pieces tell personal and political stories. £10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org U N TI L 1 OCTOBER

U N TI L 2 7 S E P T E M BE R

WATER AND LIGHT New works from artist Jim Whitty, exploring the theme of water and light. Adam Gallery; www.adamgallery.co.uk U N TI L 3 0 S E P T E M BE R

SUMMER EXHIBITION Works from artists from Luke Frost to Emma McClure at David Simon Contemporary; www.davidsimoncontemporary. com

DAVID RINGSELL EXHIBITION Discover David’s work which presents a contemporary perspective of some very familiar places. The Beaufort Restaurant, Bath; www.real-images.com U N TI L 8 OCTOBER

ECHOES OF PLACE Vibrant compositions in oil, watercolour and collage dazzle the viewer in this show from

48 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

local artist John Eaves.

His work is noted for its rhythmic compositions and use of colour to create mood.

Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTIL 15 O C TO BER

FORM AND FASCINATION New exhibition from sculptors Fiona Campbell and Ian Turnock at the National Trust’s Courts Gardens, Holt; www.nationaltrust.org UNTIL 29 O C TO BER

JOYCE PETSCHEK: BREAKING THE PATTERN Bargello needlework is a beautiful flame-stitch pattern and the artist Joyce Petschek has created a captivating body of work that is colourful, inspiring and innovative.

The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org UNTIL 29 O CT O B ER

1920S JAZZ AGE: FASHION & PHOTOGRAPHS With over 150 garments, this stunning selection of sportswear, printed day dresses, fringed flapper dresses, beaded evening wear, velvet capes and silk pyjamas, reveals the glamour, excess, frivolity and modernity of the decade.

The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org UNTIL 31 O CT O B ER

THE TRANSFORMED LAND The Transformed Land collects work from various artists who are interested in place. Some frequently return to the same place, others are visitors, some

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

are residents, and some are creators of imagined places.

Artists include David Daniels, Russell Denman and Eleanor Goulding. Circle Bath Hospital; www.artatruh.org UNTI L 9 NO V E MBE R

THE CASTING OUT Thought-provoking outdoor sculpture from local artist Martin Elphick, designed to spark debate in Bath.

Bath Abbey; www.bathabbey.org UNTI L 2 5 N O V E MBE R

BATH AND THE SMITHSONS This exhibition, Past, Present, Future: Bath and the Smithsons, is part of a series of events celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Royal Crescent. The exhibition explores Bath’s unique architecture through two of England’s most influential architects Peter and Alison Smithson. Museum of Bath Architecture; www.museumofbath architecture.org.uk UNTI L 1 0 D E C E MBE R

JUBILATE A celebration of music and science in 18th-century Bath, with a fascinating collection exploring the 250th anniversary of William Herschel’s appointment as director of music in the city. Herschel Museum of Astronomy; www.herschelmuseum.org.uk 7 S E P T E M B E R – 1 OCTOBE R

TORSO This autumn exhibition features a new body of work from Gary Wood on the theme of torso; One Two Five Gallery; www.onetwofivegallery.co.uk

2 7 SE PTE MBER – 24 D E CE MBE R

THE MOST POPULAR ART EXHIBITION EVER! An exciting exhibition from Grayson Perry tackling how contemporary art can address a diverse society. Arnolfini; www.arnolfini.co.uk 3 0 SE PTE MBER – 28 O C TO BER

WATER’S EDGE The contrasting energy of the Cornish coast and the calmer River Avon feature in an exciting exhibition from Neil Pinkett.

Artist Emily Kriste-Wilcox is also showing a selection of handbuilt ceramic vessels, distinctive with colours of pale blues and greens.

David Simon Contemporary; www.davidsimoncontemporary. com 2 OCTOBE R

SOMERSET ART WEEK A celebration of the visual arts in the South West with over 350 artists in 120 venues, many of whom have embraced the theme of ‘prospect’. www.somersetartworks.org.uk

FIVE FAMOUS PAINTINGS: HOW TO DECIPHER ART Five well-known paintings will be explained, discussed and deciphered in this talk from Ray Warburton.

7.15pm; £8; BRLSI; www.batheveningarts.co.uk

2 7 S E PTE M B E R

5 OCTOBE R

2 3 S E PTE M B E R – 8 OCTOBE R

Top: The Casting Out; above: Jim Whitty’s stunning Water and Light;

THE AMAZING WORLD OF TREES The Bath Society of Botanical Artists has sought to capture the strong forms and delicate beauty of trees in their exhibition, compositions that are scientifically accurate and visually pleasing. 10am; BRLSI; www.bsba.co.uk 6 – 8 O C TO BER

COLOUR INTO CLOTH Artist Carole Waller talks about her life in colour and the wearable art she creates. 2pm; £10; The Gainsborough Bath Spa; www. thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

TEXTURES Preview of collection of new work

by Dutch artist Agnes Pollock who now lives in Freshford.

Verve; www.verveliving.uk

Farm, Bradford on Avon; www.valeriepirlot.com

5 – 23 O C TO BER

Plays/shows 16 SEP T EM B ER

THREE WESSEX SKETCHERS An exhibition from local landscape painters Valérie Pirlot, Bob Child and Andrew Taylor showcasing work produced during their recent travels. 10am; West Barn, Barton

SALAD DAYS Witty musical capturing the sunny summer of 1954 when Timothy and Jane face pressure to find a job and a husband respectively. The energetic score includes We Said We Wouldn’t Look Back and Look At Me, I’m Dancing. Various times; £19.50 – £35.50; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 18 – 30 S EP T EM B ER

w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 49

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

THE REAL THING Laurence Fox comes to Bath in playwright Tom Stoppard’s poignant and entertaining examination of infidelity.

Various times; £21/£32; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 20 – 2 3 S E PTE M B E R

THE GREAT BRITISH SOAP OPERA A new musical about a soap opera called Victoria Square and its falling ratings, sexy new cast member and looming cancellation. 7.30pm; £12/£10; The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk 24 S E P T E M B E R

CULT FIGURE: KENNETH WILLIAMS Kenneth Williams was one of the most unique and beloved figures in British comedy history and actor Colin Elmer tells William’s story using his own anecdotes and material.

8pm; £12/£10; The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk 28 S E P T E M B E R

THE GREAT BRITISH TAKE

OFF WITH JON CULSHAW An evening of unscripted, unrehearsed, spontaneous comedy and conversation as politicians, sports personalities and celebrities old and new form part of Jon Culshaw’s brilliant repertoire. The audience will choose the characters and what direction the show takes. 8pm; £20 – £31; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

Music

4 OCTOBE R

23 SEP TEMBER

AM I RIGHT LADIES!?

Hot on the heels of her smash hit show What Would Beyoncé Do?, comedian Luisa Omielan brings her follow-up show to Bath. 8pm; £14; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 5 OCTOBE R

PAUL ZERDIN America’s Got Talent winner ventriloquist Paul Zerdin brings his sparkling new show and allstar cast of infamous puppets to the city. Join Paul, Sam, Albert and Baby plus two brand new characters for an evening of laugh out loud comedy. 8pm; £17.50; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

20 SEP TEMBER

LUCY SPRAGGAN The former X Factor contestant comes to Komedia having already achieved three top 40 albums. Lucy’s style has been described as acoustic folk and pop. 7pm, £14.50; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk BATH ABBEY GIRLS’ CHOIR Concert to celebrate the choir’s 20th anniversary. It was one of the first girl choirs in the country, with Salisbury Cathedral having paved the way just six years earlier.

7pm; £10 – £15; Bath Abbey; www.bathabbey.org 27 SEP TEMBER

NORTHERN HARMONY SINGING WORKSHOP AND CONCERT Bath’s Songways choir hosts Northern Harmony from the USA for a workshop and concert. 8pm; £10/£20; St Swithin’s Church; www.songways.co.uk

28 SEP TEM B ER

NICOLA BENEDETTI AND BATH PHILHARMONIA Hear Nicola Benedetti on violin performing Elgar’s Violin Concerto and Enigma Variations. £5 – £35; The Forum, Bath; www.bathboxoffice.org.uk 2 O C TO B ER

THE JESUS AND MARY CHAIN The legendary alt rockers are making a rare appearance and playing tracks from their critically acclaimed Damage and Joy. 7pm; £27.50; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 11 O C TO B ER

SAINT LOE A quartet of vocal harmony talent and masterly musicianship from Bath’s pop/ rock newbies Saint Loe. 7pm; £3; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 13 O C TO B ER

SOUNDS OF THE SIRENS Sound of the Sirens are an Exeter-based duo, comprising of Abbe Martin and Hannah Wood.

Their live shows combine a natural facility for connecting with their audiences and unforgettable performances with warmth, humour and, above all, real conviction.

7pm; £10; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

Family fun UNTIL 17 S EP T EM B ER

SARAH AND DUCK’S BIG TOP BIRTHDAY The enchanting world of Sarah & Duck is brought to life in this new stage show, featuring characters from the BAFTA award-winning CBeebies show. £12/£10; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk UNTIL 8 O CT O B ER

HERE BE DRAGONS Expect to encounter a veritable dragon’s den – in two and three dimensions – crammed with creatures that have leapt out of their favourite books. Events, workshops and storytelling sessions will take place at the gallery suitable for the whole family. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk w The rugged Cornish coast captured by Neil Pinkett

50 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

U N TI L 1 7 D E C E M BE R

SOUNDING THE WOOD Let your imagination run wild at musical playground Sounding the Wood in Bath. Find four instruments set within the woodland and explore how sound is created. Prior Park; www.nationaltrust.org.uk 23 – 2 4 S E PTE M B E R

CHIFFONADE Cocooned within a giant squishy chrysalis, a character and a medley of fabulous fabrics become partners in a dreamy dance. Expect a joyful surprise at the end. £8.50/£7.50; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 29 S E P T E M B E R – 8 OCTOBE R

BATH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL Fantastic children’s literature festival with talks, workshops and of course lots of books. Various locations in Bath; www.bathfestivals.org.uk

Other U N TI L 3 0 S E P T E M BE R

FRANKENSTEIN IN BATH Gothic horror on this walking tour revealing the secrets and scandals behind Frankenstein, including where in the city Mary Shelley wrote the story. Various times; £8; starts in front of Bath Abbey; www.showofstrength 16 S E P T E M B E R

POP-UP PUB See the summer out in style with a pop-up pub in a giant tipi. The night will feature a variety of local music acts, allowing you to soak up the last of those summer vibes. Tickets cost £25 to include food and a drink; Hartley Farm; www.hartley-farm.co.uk 16 S E P T E M B E R

BATHSCAPE WALKING FESTIVAL Celebrate Bath’s stunning and unique landscape with this festival comprising 20 different walks in various locations. www. bathscapewalkingfestival.co.uk 16 S E P T E M B E R

GENTLEMAN’S DAY Enjoy a Saturday afternoon at the races including the Best Dressed competition just for gents. 12 – 6pm; £12 – £41; Bath Racecourse; www.bath-racecourse.co.uk

Bob Child’s relaxing Goa 1 9 SE PTE MBE R

YOTTAM OTTOLENGHI AND HELEN GOH TALK Yottam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh talk about their new book Sweet as part of Topping & Company’s Autumn Book Festival. 8pm; £27 to include a copy of the book; Komedia; www.toppingbooks.co.uk 2 3 SE PTE MBE R

CENTENARY MASQUERADE BALL Stunning fundraising ball in aid of Leonard Cheshire Disability. Guest speakers, fine dining, drinks and music from a 1940s-style band. 7pm; £95; Bath Assembly Rooms; www.leonardcheshire.org 2 3 SE PTE MBE R – 8 O C TO BER

THE GREAT BATH FEAST Get your teeth stuck into this foodie festival with offers and events taking place across the city. For more, see pages 74s and 85. www.greatbathfeast.co.uk

work of children’s illustrator Pauline Baynes who worked with JRR Tolkien, and illustrated many books including The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.6.15pm; £8 – £10; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk 29 SEP TEMBER

OKTOBERFEST Grab your lederhosen for an evening of live music and traditional German beer all served in a wunderbar atmosphere. 5.30pm; £7 – £25; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 12 O C TO BER

RE-USE AND RE-PURPOSE Join Professor Carol Tulloch as she talks about how British/ Jamaican fashion designer Jessica Ogden’s work re-making, re-cycling and customising pre-used textiles is rooted in a centuries-old Caribbean tradition. Part of Black History Month. 6.15pm; £8 – £10, Fashion Museum, Bath; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

2 6 SE PTE MBE R

DISCOVERING PAULINE BAYNES Twilight talk on the life and

52 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

13 O C TO BER

BATH YOUNG ACTOR OF THE YEAR

Six highly talented performers have been selected from the 2017 MidSomerset Festival to compete for the junior and senior Bath Young Actor of the Year. They will perform a short repetoire of contrasting pieces on a theme of their choice, to display the range of their talents. 6.45pm; £5; The Edge, University of Bath; www.bathboxoffice.org.uk 14 O C TO B ER

JUSTIN MOORHOUSE Comedy from Live at the Apollo, Phoenix Nights and Fighting Talk northern charmer Justin Moorhouse.

8pm; £12 – £14; The Rondo; www.rondotheatre.co.uk 14 – 15 O CT O B ER

ACHIEVE Celebrity speakers including Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Ruby Wax and Martin Roberts, plus stalls and demonstrations.

Various times; £10 – £20; Bath Assembly Rooms.

For more, see page 138. www.achieve.co.uk

NOW OPEN AS A FABULOUS AND UNIQUE JEWELLERY SHOP

POP IN AND SEE FOR YOURSELF 23 BROCK STREET BATH BA1 2LW WWW.ALEXANDRAMAY.COM 01225 465 094

A r t ad v ertisi n g feature

TWenty years of this…

A celebration of two creative decades of Bath Artists' studio, and of educating the public to appreciate and understand the arts

O

ver the past 20 years, Bath Artists’ Studios has become renowned for providing the facilities and means to enable a wide range of artists to belong to a community where learning and practice meet, and which has placed itself at the very centre of artistic activity in Bath.

Our charitable objective is ‘the education of the public in the understanding and appreciation of the arts’ – and this is clearly demonstrated in our classes and workshop programme, together with many outreach projects.

Since 1997, open studios has regularly attracted wide audiences who come to take advantage of a rare opportunity to meet over 50 artists, see the inside of their studios and learn how they develop their practice.

So, as 2017 is our 20th anniversary, we have a lot to celebrate. Our programme of events begins with a launch party on Friday evening featuring bars, The Pizza Bike, yarn bombing, as well as live music from samba band, Batala, and gypsy jazz from The Water Gypsies.

54 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Our Roper Gallery will be hosting an exhibition of work: “20 years of this ...” representing artists, past and present, showing pieces that resonate personally with the artists. We welcome work from Pete Brown, David Cobley and other former members of our community.

We will also be unveiling a major new figurative sculptural installation, entitled ‘Art’ created by six artists for this anniversary.

To recognise the significance of this milestone, the artists have designed china plates, each displaying a different work of art created at the studios in a wide range of media. These 36 plates will be for sale during open studios.

Our now traditional auction of 12 x 12 works by studio artists, currently on show at the Royal United Hospital in partnership with Art At The Heart, will return to our studios so that you will have a chance to view and bid for works while visiting open studios.

Over the course of the weekend, you will be able to visit individual studio spaces, participate in workshops and enjoy refreshments in our pop-up café.

Please come and celebrate our history and our future.

Opening night: 22 September; 6.309.30pm Saturday and Sunday: 11-4 pm Bath Artists’ Studios, Comfortable Place, Bath, BA1 3AJ. Tel: 01225 482480 Facebook: Bath Artists’ Studios Instagram: @bathartistsstudios www.bathartistsstudios.actuk.net

ad v e r tising featu r e T r av e l

life well–travelled

Miles Morgan Travel staff deliver expert knowledge and customer service

C

elebrating over 10 years of providing excellent customer service and competitive prices, Miles Morgan Travel is delighted to announce its dedication and service to customers has once again been recognised by an independent mystery shopper.

National trade publication, Travel Trade Gazette awarded an incredible 98 per cent to Dave Croft, a Miles Morgan Travel Specialist in their Bath branch. The mystery shopper criteria scores shops across the country on everything from shop design to how well staff succeeded in addressing the customer's requirements. Dave was kind, welcoming and helped the customer achieve their objective within budget. Dave's knowledge and personal experience within the

“Dave Croft was kind, welcoming and helped the customer achieve their objective”

travel sector meant he confidently provided all the advice needed for the customer to meet their holiday requirements.

This mystery shopper visit follows on from a 95 per cent score which was awarded by trade magazine Travel Weekly to Debbie Knapton at Miles Morgan Travel's branch in Wells last month.

With 15 branches across the South West and South Wales, Miles Morgan Travel has been consistently recognised for its outstanding contribution to the travel industry, most recently the 2017 Agent Achievement Award for the South West and South Wales. This marked the second consecutive year the travel specialist has won this prestigious award and the fourth time it has achieved this accolade since 2012.

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www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

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BOOKS

ARTS

for older child and teenage readers. At an early children’s literature festival many years ago, I was in the room when Kevin Crossley-Holland spoke about one of his Arthurian novels and somehow converted a secondary school theatre full of slightly soporific pupils into an audience of crusade addicts. He’ll work the same magic this year when he talks Norse Myths in advance of the release of his new illustrated retelling of the stories of Odin, Loki and Thor (Walker, £18.99) – a book he’s well-qualified to write given that he also penned the more adultorientated Penguin Book of Norse Myths (Penguin, £12.99). Kevin Crossley-Holland will be at the festival on 8 October alongside Francesca Simon whose latest novel, The Monstrous Child (Faber, £7.99), is told from the perspective of Norse underworld goddess Hel.

SMALL PRINT With the approach of the Bath Children’s Literature Festival, we turn our focus to the word warriors soon to descend on the city

By N IC BO T T OM L E Y

O

n 29 September, some of the greatest word warriors we have at our disposal – in that gentle fight to ensure our children become the next generation of eager readers – will once again come to Bath.

They’re here to inspire young readers at the Bath Children’s Literature Festival, an event that gives our city’s youngsters unrivalled access to the authors they enjoy reading.

As usual, there are some huge names on the line-up – my daughter is thrilled that both Cressida Cowell and Jacqueline Wilson are coming back to town – but I thought I’d take a look just beneath the headliners to pick out a few other events that might create some book super-fans during the festival.

One of my favourite writers for children of roughly Key Stage 2 age is Kate DiCamillo who has written a glut of kooky animal tales over the years and is visiting from the US on 30 September to talk about her own stories, writing and the importance of storytelling in general. DiCamillo may be most known in the UK for the two of her books which have received the movie treatment, namely The Tale of Despereaux, and Because of Winn-Dixie, starring an adventurous mouse and a scruffy pooch respectively.

However, if you spend any time chatting to Mr B’s booksellers, you might be more familiar with Flora and Ulysses (Walker, £6.99). Any book that opens with the vacuuming of a squirrel has to be worth exploring, and this hilarious novel with its occasional full-page, comic-style illustrations is no exception. Its characters are quirky, and the relationship between our heroine and her new strangely super-powered squirrel companion develops brilliantly.

If the young book-lover in your life prefers their creatures more unpredictable and scaly, then perhaps take them to meet two novelists who’ve switched from their original adult audience in order to write dragon dramas for middle-grade children.

Jasper Fforde interrupted his zany literary crime capers to write The Last Dragonslayer (Hodder, £7.99) and its two sequels. More recently, Scarlet Thomas switched from her trademark offbeat literary and quasisteampunk novels to create Dragon’s Green (Canongate, £7.99), which, like Fforde’s series, thrusts an unsuspecting but fastlearning heroine into a treacherous magical world. Fforde and Thomas are appearing together on 30 September.

If history, myth or legend is the order of the day, then another double-header features one of the great historical novelists

MY DAUGHTER IS THRILLED THAT BOTH CRESSIDA COWELL AND JACQUELINE WILSON ARE COMING BACK TO TOWN Finally, it’s important to remember that the festival isn’t just for older readers – there’s lots for pre-school book addicts too, including an appearance from Bath’s own Alice Tait with her debut No, Nancy No! (Walker, £12.99) as well as the incomparable Julia Donaldson.

And nor is it exclusively for fiction fans.

Non-fiction storytellers are on hand as well. For example, youngsters (or adults, come to that) with an interest in space and astronomy can encounter Maggie AderinPocock, whose TV credits include following in the footsteps of Sir Patrick Moore as a Sky at Night presenter. She’ll be passing on her limitless enthusiasm for the planets and stars in an event on 7 October which is linked to her StarFinder for Beginners book (Dorling Kindersley, £12.99).

If you can, do get along to the festival – it’s an incredible resource that we’re so lucky to have on our doorsteps and there really is something for every reading taste.

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 59

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E F I N A N C E

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ince it was founded in 2011, Bathbased Savings Champion has established itself as the UK’s leading independent expert on cash-based savings, providing savers with free unbiased personalised guidance on their cash savings.

Founding directors, Anna Bowes, Sue Hannums and Chris Shaw, believed so passionately that the needs of savers have largely been ignored by savings product providers and the government, that they wanted to create a cash savings advice business to champion savers to get them a better deal.

Today we help thousands of savers with no-nonsense simple advice to maximise the return on their savings. Our team of researchers reviews the savings market daily and we are proud to have created the largest database of saving accounts information in the UK. This enables us to monitor over 5,500 personal, business and charity savings accounts, which covers more than 18,000 interest rates.

This data combined with our expertise in the market means we are regularly featured in and supply cash savings information for The Sunday Times and Mail on Sunday, to name but a few, as well as partnering with The Telegraph and appearing on BBC Breakfast and Radio 4’s Money Box.

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monitor the rates on your existing savings accounts and compare them to the whole savings market. We’ll then send you a rate alert when your rates are changing and let you know how they compare to very best accounts available in the market.

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LOGO For more information about our FREE services for individuals, charities and businesses and to sign up, visit our website: savingschampion.co.uk or call us on 0800 3213 582. We are here to help.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 61

T h e C u r ta i n E x c h a n g e For the best dressed windows

IN BATH

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Starting School?

We'd love to see you at one of our

OPEN DAYS 10a

No a m-2p m ppo nece intmen t ssar y.

Wednesday 11th October 2017

Atworth

Monkton Farleigh Friday 13th October 2017

We love our nurturing school and you will too!

All are welcome to visit to see it in action…

We look forward to meeting you.

Ofsted rated 'Good' 2017

Headteacher: Mr Simon Futcher Bradford Road, Atworth, Wiltshire, SN12 8HY Tel: 01225 703026 Email: admin@churchfields.wilts.sch.uk www.churchfields.wilts.sch.uk

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E S C H O O L O P E N D AY S

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS' DIRECTORY Parents can go behind the scenes at these school open days PRIMARY/PREP SCHOOLS

THE PARAGON SCHOOL

ATWORTH SCHOOL

Open day: 11 October

www.priorparkschools.com 01225 310837

www.churchfields.wilts.sch.uk 01225 703026

THE ROYAL HIGH SCHOOL BATH

Open morning: 13 October

Junior open day: 16 September

KINGSWOOD BATH

Open evening sixth form: 28 September Open morning senior school: 30 September www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk 01225 734200 MONKTON COMBE SCHOOL

Open morning (whole school): 7 October

www.royalhighbath.gdst.net 01225 313877

Sixth form open evening: 6 October Senior school open morning: 7 October

www.brutonschool.co.uk 01749 814400

ST MARGARET’S PREP SCHOOL

www.monkton.org.uk 01225 721102

BRUTON SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Open morning: 12 October

Open day: 30 September

www.stmargaretsprep.org.uk 01249 857220

www.heywoodprep.com 01249 713379

STONAR SCHOOL

HEYWOOD PREP SCHOOL

KING EDWARD'S SCHOOL

Open morning: 7 October (pre-prep-senior) www.kesbath.com 01225 820399 KINGSWOOD PREP SCHOOL

Open morning: 5 October

www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk 01225 310468

Open morning: 23 September www.stonarschool.com 01225 701741

OLDFIELD SCHOOL

Open evening: 27 September Open morning: 29 September and 2 October Sixth form open evening: 14 November www.oldfieldschool.com 01225 423582 PRIOR PARK COLLEGE

SENIOR/SECONDARY SCHOOLS BRUTON SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Open evening senior school: 21 September Open evening sixth form: 18 October

Open morning: 23 September Sixth form open evening: 26 September www.priorparkschools.com 01225 831000 THE ROYAL HIGH SCHOOL BATH

Open day: 13 October

www.brutonschool.co.uk 01749 814400

IB evening: 19 September Sixth form open evening: 5 October Senior open day: 14 October

www.churchfields.wilts.sch.uk 01225 703026

KING EDWARD'S SCHOOL

www.royalhighbath.gdst.net 01225 313877

MONKTON FARLEIGH SCHOOL

MONKTON COMBE SCHOOL PREP SCHOOL

Sixth form open evening: 6 October Senior, junior and pre-prep open morning: 7 October

www.monkton.org.uk; 01225 721102

www.kesbath.com; 01225 820399

Open morning: 14 October

STONAR SCHOOL

Open morning: 23 September www.stonarschool.com 01225 701741 www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 67

72 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

The Rusty Stag Sweet ice cream to start, and savoury ice cream for dessert, this new restaurant in Broughton Gifford knows how to toy with the emotions and senses of its diners

By L I SA E VA NS

W

hen a menu offers ‘soil, moss and twigs’, its clear aim is to spark intrigue among diners. Maybe in this case, it’s a little too much intrigue as we hear every guest in earshot ask the waitress what exactly this dish consists of.

The menu at The Rusty Stag, you see, is one of those ultra-modern ones which shuns long-winded explanations, and its mystery leave diners both titillated and enticed in equal measure, if not ever so slightly bemused. But this cocktail of emotions clearly hits the spot, as the new restaurant is full on this early Thursday evening.

So, because you’re dying to know what exactly is in that abovementioned dish, it’s not in fact a handful of forest floor, it’s venison with a chocolate crumb, parsley sponge and breadsticks. It’s no accident that the menu is so curious, because head chef Tom Mackins – who, by the age of 21, worked for the Michelin-starred chef, Kevin Viner – is hungry for one thing: a Michelin star of his own, and he wants it as soon as next year.

His country dining and drinking house, nestled in the idyllic village of Broughton Gifford, took over from The Fox this summer and, after an extensive makeover, officially opened just over a month ago. The most noticeable thing about the interior is the abundance of stagrelated adornments, but looking past those, the venue is clean, not fussy or overcomplicated, and has a distinctively and effortlessly cool edge – partly thanks to the mellow soundtrack playing acoustic versions of rock songs by the likes of Jimmy Eat World. Every aspect is thought about, yet doesn’t feel contrived. Even the bread – always a sign of things to come – is considered and compelling, especially when teamed with highly whipped roasted shallot butter.

From the concise menu – featuring boundary-bending pairings such as shallot custard with pork cheek, and grouse with chocolate and fig – I select a dessert masquerading as a starter. It’s palate-cleansing and sweet, decorated with edible flowers, and is delivered with

IT’S A WHIMSICAL AFFAIR – A WHISPER OF CHILDHOOD, AT THE END OF A VERY GROWN-UP EXPERIENCE

utmost precision and refinement. The crunchy, pickled kohlrabi slices – cut into exactly 12, translucent perfect circles – create a pretty, petal-like border for a crush of hazelnuts mounted with a flawlessly round scoop of tart Granny Smith sorbet. And the plate is decorated with plump raisins and vivid borage flowers. It’s all wonderfully refreshing and pleasing, but, personally, as I don’t have much of a sweet tooth, it probably wouldn’t have been my order if there had been another vegetarian option on the menu. Having said that, the menu changes daily, so the choices are always going to vary.

My comrade’s lamb belly is lick-the-plate-clean good; it’s crisp on the outside but the meat sighs submission at the merest nudge of a fork, and it comes with peeled cucumber chunks and punchy anchovies. To follow, his delicately flavoured main is poached-to-perfection, boatfresh turbot on ribbons of lobster, accompanied by sea greens and fennel.

My main is labelled only as ‘cauliflower’ on the menu, so it’s a surprise when a smooth, comforting, brassica risotto – sprinkled with dehydrated parsley sponge, of course – arrives in all its creamy glory. The only element I can nitpick about is, this course, like my starter, also comes with raisins and hazelnuts, meaning the subtext is similar in both dishes.

The dessert arrives with hazelnuts and raisins too, but the familiar ingredients certainly don’t bully the exquisitely rich flavors in the pud named simply ‘coffee’.

It’s a whimsical, yet still sophisticated, affair which consists of chocolate ganache and coffee ice creams, sponge, and a thick dollop of something that tastes like a velvety version of a Daim bar – a whisper of childhood, at the end of a very grown-up experience.

As a lover of savoury, I go down the cheese route.

When I’m presented with only a single slice of Old Winchester, I’m disheartened, but that’s until I realise the accompaniments are also made using the nutty, tangy cheese. There’s ice cream reminiscent of a fat-rich ball of butter, a cheesy crumble, an aerated mousse, salty twills, and a snowfall of white, dehydrated dust which instantly melts on the tongue. There’s no chutney or port as the menu promises, but I can live with that.

As cool as the back of the bus in your school days, The Rusty Stag dishes up the kind of cooking you want to both admire and eat, but, be warned, you need to be a fan of surprises to get on board with the chef’s unusual concepts.

We can confirm, we’re firm enthusiasts.

DINING DETAILS The Rusty Stag, The Street, Broughton Gifford, Wiltshire, SN12 8PN; 01225 308541; www.therustystag.com Prices Starters £7 – £10; mains £16 – £24; desserts £7 – £9 Drinks There’s pride in the curated drinks offering comprising 16 craft ales, lagers and ciders, and more than 20 wine varieties Service/atmosphere Attentive and approachable, and the surrounds are simple and unfussy with a a definite edge

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 73

Bath bites The city’s annual food event, The Great Bath Feast, returns this autumn for a 16-day celebration of the city’s vibrant and varied food and drink scene. Here are just a few of the highlights we’re looking forward to…

By E v e ly n Gr ee n Simi Rezai-Ghassemi Sample the celebrated cuisine of Persia and Azerbaijan on Simi’s informal cookery class.

Use seasonal ingredients – grown on her own organic allotment and foraged for in the city – to create traditional dishes such as jewelled rice, aubergine dip, and saffron chicken.

Peter Testo Join Peter and learn how to create a sumptuous Great Bath Feast of your own using locally sourced, seasonal produce. Try your hand at terrines, pies and confits before matching your creations with wine, and then tucking in.

23/30 September, and 7 October, Simi’s Kitchen

24 September, and 1/8 October, In the Kitchen Cookery School

Bath Edible Adventures Take a gastronomic gallop around the Georgian city of Bath with Bath Edible Adventures and you will find yourself immersed in an exclusive, moveable supper club which showcases the sights, sounds and flavours of the West Country.

Veggie feast Join the very best vegetarian chefs from Acorn Vegetarian Kitchen, Demuths Vegetarian Cookery School, and Green Rocket as they create a six-course tasting menu to showcase their shared passion for producing the very best vegetarian food.

23 September/8 October, all around the city

25 September, Demuths Vegetarian Cookery School

Bath Artisan Market The city’s biggest independent market will offer local street food and produce alongside handcrafted art, gifts and homewares.

24 September, Queen Square 74 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Alessio Planeta The winemaker will guide you through his family’s multi award-winning wines and the stunning Sicilian regions where they

FOOD AND DRINK This page, clockwise, from right: comedian Hardeep Singh Kohli; Bath Edible Adventures’ treats; Simi of Simi’s Kitchen; opposite page: clockwise, from far left: As well as Green Park Brasserie’s anniversary, celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first ever Farmers’ Market in the UK at Green Park Station (23 September); Acorn Vegetarian Kitchen delights; Rupert Taylor will host a supper club; GBBO’s Nadiya Hussain

anecdotes about his passion for food and the development of curry culture while cooking with fresh, local ingredients including vegetables harvested within two miles of the venue.

5 October, Widcombe Social Club

GREEN PARK BRASSERIE BIRTHDAY Celebrate 25 years of the brasserie by travelling around the world in 80 bites.

Tuck into a tempting array of internationally themed food stalls and soak up the street party atmosphere.

are made. Planeta’s wines will be served alongside a four-course menu created by Allium’s talented head chef, Rupert Taylor.

27 September, Allium, Abbey Hotel

FIONA BECKETT AND BEN LAMBOURNE Fiona is a wine writer for The Guardian and Decanter magazine, and Ben owns Pong Cheese. Together, the wine and cheese experts present an evening of mouthwatering matches.

surroundings of one of Bath’s highlyacclaimed gastropubs.

28 September, Bath Recreation Ground

4 October, The Chequers

SAVOURING BATH Experience Bath’s history using your taste buds as Savouring Bath guides you through the city with tastings of some of the food and drink which have put Bath firmly on the food map of the UK.

NICK SHEARN The local chocolatier and owner of Seven Hills Chocolate presents an evening of everything chocolate-related. After a demonstration and a hands-on workshop, you’ll be able to make, fill, pipe and decorate chocolate just like a master chocolatier.

28 – 30 September, and 5 – 6 October, meet at the Visitor Information Centre

5 October, Newton Farm Shop

HARDEEP SINGH KOHLI The comedian and chef (who you may have spotted on the front cover of the last issue of Bath Life magazine) will come to Bath Comedy Festival and will share

NADIYA HUSSAIN Younger members of the audience can get stuck into biscuit decorating as the Great British Bake Off winner stops off at Bath Children’s Literature Festival to share her favourite recipes and stories from her new family cookbook and storybook compilation, Nadiya’s Bake Me a Festive Story.

6 October, Guildhall, Bath

OKTOBERFEST Bringing a slice of Bavaria to Bath, Electric Bear Brewing Co has created a range of small-batch brews to complement everything from bratwurst and currywurst, to spiced potatoes, and cheese and pickles.

6 October, Electric Bear Brewing Co For more and to book, visit www.greatbathfeast.co.uk

PHOTO BY KATE SIMMONS AT KMS PHOTOGRAPHY

ALEX BETTS The head chef of The Chequers presents an exclusive autumn supper club featuring seven courses of seasonal delights served at sociable sharing tables in the intimate

6 October, Green Park Station

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 75

FOOD

RECIPE

Panna cotta with honeycomb The Dan Moon at the Gainsborough Restaurant is offering two-for-one three-course lunches throughout The Great Bath Feast. Here, chef Dan Moon shares one of his favourite seasonal recipes for autumn with us...

O

riginating from the Piedmont region in Northern Italy, panna cotta literally means ‘cooked cream’ in Italian,” says Dan. "This recipe has a few delightful little twists and is one you can try at home – perfect for pleasing guests at the end of a dinner party. The creamy panna cotta is laced with a generous amount of fresh vanilla, while the homemade honeycomb adds a wonderful contrast in texture. I serve this with fresh seasonal fruits such as raspberries to cut through the sweetness, while the sorrel adds a fresh, aromatic finish."

76 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Ingredients (serves eight) Buttermilk panna cotta: 1/2 pint buttermilk 1/2 pint double milk 6 tbsp caster sugar 1 vanilla pod (split lengthways, seeds scraped out) 2 leaves of gelatine (pre-soaked until soft) Honeycomb: 165g sugar 60ml honey 40ml water 20g bicarbonate of soda 140g liquid glucose Method Buttermilk panna cotta: Soak gelatine leaves in a little cold water until soft. Add the double cream, vanilla pod seeds and caster sugar to a pan and bring to the boil. Remove from heat and add the gelatine leaves and stir until

dissolved. Stir in the buttermilk, then pour the mixture between eight glasses or ramekins and place into the fridge until set (about four hours).

Honeycomb: Mix the water, sugar, glucose and honey together in a deep saucepan. Place the pan on the heat and boil to 140°C. Take off the heat and whisk in the bicarbonate of soda. Pour onto a lined tray until set (at least an hour). Bash into small pieces to accompany the panna cotta.

To serve: Add fresh sorrel and seasonal fruit.

Two-for-one lunch at the Dan Moon at the Gainsborough Restaurant runs from now until 10 October. For more information, visit www.greatbathfeast.co.uk or www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

Turn on the tapas Why not whet your appetite with these little plates of loveliness?

By sa m wa l k e r tapas revolution

New(ish) foodie kid on the block Tapas Revolution has been making something of a, well, revolution for diners in Bath since it opened four months ago.

Chef and owner Omar Allibhoy says diners will be transported to Spain, with the SouthGate eatery exuding a holiday vibe.

And, when the weather is good, a covered terrace adds to the laidback feel – perfect for people watching.

“Our food is very authentic, cooked using traditional recipes I have been using all my life,” says Omar.

“The ingredients that we use are imported directly from Spain, all from small artisan producers I have known for decades.

“Come for churros and breakfast, have an excellent and affordable Menu del Dia for lunch, come for dinner for a full tapas experience and a good bottle of Rioja, or just join us for drinks after work in our amazing bar.”

The menu includes patatas bravas, calamares fritos, chorizo a la sierra, and plenty of veggie options. www.tapasrevolution.com

Quality will out at Mother & Wild

Sociable sharing at Tapas Revolution

Mother & Wild

Love freshly cooked food that really delivers on flavour? So do we, that’s why we’ve been hotfooting it over to Corsham for brunches, lunches, pizzas and more at this cool indie joint.

The foodie love, says owner James Still, is down to the quality of the fare.

“Everyone shouts about using the best local ingredients but the reality is they just don’t. We pride ourselves on sourcing free range, quality ingredients – Woolley free range chickens or Somerset organic mozzarella, for example. Food miles are important but, for me, the quality is the most important factor.”

The eatery has been open since December and is very much an all-day affair, with little plates or larger portions available so every appetite is catered for.

The menu includes scallops, arancini and crispy pork belly.

“We are also known for our awesome sourdough pizzas, cooked Neapolitan style – open flames, huge heat – so it takes on that charred flavour, with thin, crispy pillowy crusts,” adds James.

And did we mention the suntrap garden, complete with heaters for that autumn chill? www.motherandwild.com

Small is beautiful at Koh Thai

78 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

TA PA S

FOOD

RING O BELLS

Wonderful Widcombe has another reason to visit in the form of the Ring O Bells.

Busy slaving over a hot stove is head chef and owner David Giddings, with his new menu of small plates and steaks tempting many a palate.

“We offer a dining experience where we endeavour to create interesting and innovative dishes with an ever–changing menu.

This offers our diners an opportunity to sample ingredients and flavours they perhaps wouldn’t find elsewhere,” says David.

“The concept of a small plates menu is not a new one but creates a far more sociable way of dining, and promotes a relaxed and slow paced experience. Also, this gives the opportunity to sample many plates rather than a standard three-course à la carte menu.”

Quite. The menu includes crab bisque made from fresh Cornish crabs, homemade ricotta and nutmeg gnocchi, and juniper smoked grouse with neeps and tatties dauphinoise, and haggis en croute with whisky jus. www.ringobellswidcombe.co.uk

Pretty as a picture at the Ring O Bells

PINTXO

Just a hop, skip and a jump from the Theatre Royal Bath is bar de tapas Pintxo, offering a calm escape from the bustling city outside.

Pintxo is run by husband and wife team Mark and Teresa Mentzel, with Teresa’s Spanish heritage leaving you in no doubt that the tapas are authentic and delicious.

The relaxed atmosphere, beautiful sherry garden and quirky feel – we love the use of Spanish newspapers on the ceiling – means diners can kick back, relax, and tuck into tapas.

Pintxo prides itself on its sherries, but, fear not, this isn’t the Harvey’s Bristol Cream ilk but rather a drink with varying and subtle flavours, depending on where it was produced.

The restaurant takes its name from the little skewers holding those tasty tapas together, and mouthwatering morsels include wild mushroom croquettes, garlic prawns and crab croquettes.

“We’ve been open about four months now and we offer tapas, as nibbles from £3.50, up to tapas of around £8,” says Mark.

“And sherry – we champion it!” www.pintxo.co.uk

KOH THAI TAPAS

East meets West at Koh Thai Tapas with authentic recipes cooked

by Thai chefs, served in a European style of dining so what’s not to love?

The restaurant has been open for four years, with its design inspiration themed on ‘an island escape’.

A tasty phad Thai and a Koh beer costs less than £15, or if you have something to celebrate, then you can enjoy a boozy champagne dinner for £200.

“Our bestseller is our chicken satay, by far, with our famous Koh peanut sauce, followed by the medium spice of the creamy green curry, served with a choice of meat, aubergine and bamboo shoots,” says marketing manager Jade Evans.

“The jungle curry packs a real fiery punch. It’s the spiciest Thai curry with a fragrant, thin base and no coconut milk. Packed with Thai herbs, aubergine and homemade chilli paste.”

Veggies can tuck into a veritable banquet, too – think vegetable spring rolls, sweetcorn cakes, fried tofu sticks, vegetable tempura, to name but a few.

A Pintxo of what you fancy

www.koh–thai.co.uk

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pin-cho (noun) a small snack eaten in bars

BRING A TASTE OF

SPAIN TO BATH

With a laid back feel and a sunny garden, it’s the perfect place to spend time with friends, sampling the best sherries, wines and food we could find from our favourite parts of Spain.

For parties over 8 we offer a £15 mixed tapas menu, to include our most popular dishes.

Wines start from £19.95 a bottle.

Pintxo de Bath, 31, Barton Street, Bath, BA1 1HG. Email bath@pintxo.co.uk | 01225 463861

DRINKS

DRINK EXPERT

TIME TO WINE DOWN With the arrival of September comes the prospect of cosy nights in front of the fire. Where there is cosiness, there’s a glass of wine. Here, ANGELA MOUNT talks us through the Italian varieties to try for autumn

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taly seduces at every level. The language, the culture, the cuisine, the landscape, the wines. Running over 700km from tip to toe, it’s multifacetted, in just about every respect, and captivating in its charm and beauty.

I’ve been lucky enough to travel the length and breadth of this beautiful country and witness the wide diversity of traditions, food styles, climate, terrains and wines, and it’s one of my favourite places in the world.

The wines are as diverse as the regions and the climate, from the cool of the Northern Alps, to the searing heat of Sicily. Tuscany has long been a favourite holiday haunt, with its magical castellos, cypress trees, rolling hills, pictureperfect vineyards, and olive groves. Chianti is world famous.

But so is Barolo. Unlike France, where most people know the difference between Bordeaux and Burgundy, Italy, with more grape varieties than anywhere else in the world, and a plethora of styles, confuses. Names are familiar to many, but locations less so.

So this month I’m exploring the north west of this intriguing country, and putting a little bit of background to some of the most famous wines from the region. Piemonte, is the land of one of the most prized, evocative, expensive products in the world, white truffles, with their intoxicating scent and flavour, addictive to many. It is also famous for game, mist-covered

mornings and spectacular autumns. It’s also a region boasting some of the most spectacular cuisine in the country. It’s about as far north west as you can get in Italy, nestled in the foothills (Piemonte means ‘foot of mountain’) of the soaring peaks of the French Alps to the west and north, and bordering the Mediterranean coastline of Liguria, the glitteringly beautiful Italian Riviera.

Chianti and Barolo are the most famous Italian wines; the former is produced from the sour cherry and lively plum-flavoured Sangiovese grape in Tuscany; the latter from the deep, violet and liquorice-scented Nebbiolo, which reigns supreme in Piemonte, the home of Barolo. Nebbiolo is a maverick grape, capable of creating some of the most magnificently dark and brooding wines in the world, but also also sulkily turning out thin, harsh, fruitless wines in poor vintages if not treated with skilled hands and craftsmanship. Knowing the right producers is crucial.

Conterno Fantino Barolo Vigna Del Gris 2011 (£57) is well worth the investment for a wine of concentrated, unique depth and beauty.

The 2011 vintage was a forward wine, and the wines will keep for years, but this shows a perfumed, beguiling elegance, redolent of violets and rich dark fruits, ending with a spicy finish. Silky, sensuous, with endless depth and complexity. It’s an absolute classic.

For a lighter style Barolo, try renowned producer Ascheri Barolo 2013 (£27.50), softer, bright, again with an intoxicating perfume, and a gentle, but perfectly formed structure.

But you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy the red wines of Piemonte. Barbera is the other main red grape of the region – softer, more feminine than the more muscular Nebbiolo. For a great value, everyday drinking red, try Amonte Barbera 2015 (£7.95) – with plum and cherry fruit, it’s a great midweek pasta wine, or great with a platter of prosciutto.

A PERFUMED, BEGUILING ELEGANCE, REDOLENT OF VIOLETS AND RICH DARK FRUITS

For a bright, juicier style, Dolcetto is Piemonte’s other red grape variety – cheeky, lively, more modest, and perfect for those who prefer softer, unoaked styles. Conterno Fantino Dolcetto d’Alba Bricco Bastia 2016 (£15.25), is just the ticket. It shimmers with bright ruby colour, and seduces with its ripe, opulent plum and raspberry and pure fruit character. Perfect with herb-dusted chicken, and slow roasted pork belly.

White wines are often overshadowed in this region of red wine kings, with their heady character, but don’t ignore the delightfully elegant, creamy and smooth whites from the region. Ascheri Gavi di Gavi 2016 (£14.95), is squeaky clean, and as taut as a finely-tuned violin string. Oozing style and elegant restraint, it’s a super-cool, nervy dry white from the Cortese grape, produced by Matteo Ascheri, a vinous master craftsman. Creamy, refreshing, and packed with bright lime, grapefruit, pithy lemon and green apple character, it shines with zestiness and tang. Polished. Sophisticated. Try this one with all manner of seafood, lemoninfused seabass, and creamy prawn linguine.

At the other end of the scale, from the Alba area, comes the frivolously sweet Asti Spumante, derided over the years, but a much underrated – deliciously frothy, lively fizz.

Equally good is Moscato d’Asti; in this case Fontanafredda Moscato D’Asti Moncucco 2016 (£9.95), with its light, fragrant, honeysuckleinfused style – and with only 5.5 per cent alcohol – is a great lunchtime or afternoon al fresco drink.

If you’ve played safe with Italian wines so far, know Barolo and Chianti, but haven’t experimented further, it’s well worth the journey to discover the lesser-known gems.

All drinks featured are available at Great Western Wine, Wells Road, Bath. Angela Mount is a Bathbased wine writer, presenter and international judge who had her taste buds insured for £10million during her tenure as one of the country’s leading supermarket wine buyers. She works with wine producers, chefs and distributors.

For more, visit www.greatwesternwine.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK W H AT ’ S M A K I N G T H E G O U R M E T N E W S I N B AT H

LOVE AT FIRST BITE

NEW STEAKHOUSE ON THE BLOCK Carnivores will enjoy a bite to eat at Bath’s new steakhouse, Bar + Block, when it opens in James St West. And, ahead of its official opening on 28 September, the eatery is holding preview dining with all meals half price.

The preview is on 26 and 27 September, and available to diners who reserve tables. The steakhouse will offer all-day dining, with a wide range of cuts of meat including rump, rib-eye, sirloin and spiral-cut steaks.

Meat is sourced from cattle reared on the Pampas in South America, dry-aged for 28 days then cut to order.

Other dishes include slow-cooked pork belly, beef short rib, and beef burgers freshly ground on-site, as well as a selection of breakfast, brunch and quick lunch dishes.

Drinks include craft beers and cocktails, and the eatery will have Fizz Fridays when a bottle of prosecco will cost £15.

For more: www.barandblock.co.uk

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Swoon Gelato has proved it is the cream of the crop after winning Producer of the Year at The Great Taste Awards.

Swoon, in Bath’s Kingsead Square, prides itself on its gelato made from the best ingredients.

“This is a phenomenal achievement for the whole Swoon team,” says Bruno Forte, who runs the business with his wife Ana-Maria, sister Pat Powell and mother Louisa.

“This journey started three years ago when I decided to delve into my family’s history of gelato making, going back to the 1920s when my grandparents, nonno Alfonso and nonna Adelina arrived from Italy.

“We opened in Bristol in February 2016 and in Bath in May this year. The reception has been amazing, so we would also like to thank our customers in helping us win this award.

We have already been invited to Selfridges to do a pop-up event.”

Swoon wowed the judges with its ‘masterfully executed’ Neapolitan coffee gelato, ‘lovely and creamy’ pistachio gelato and ‘oh so moreish’ hazelnut gelato, as well as its ‘superb’ chocolate sorbetto, which was dubbed the ‘perfect encapsulation of chocolate’.

The Great Taste Awards, founded in 1994 and organised by The Guild of Fine Food, has judged over 122,000 products in the last 23 years.

For more: www.swoononaspoon.co.uk

Head chef Luisa Fontana with gelato she made earlier

Moreish foodie festival The Great Bath Feast runs in the city from 23 September – 8 October, with a menu full of special events and offers.

The popular Tenner Treat makes a welcome return with a host of the city’s best eateries taking part.

PICK OF TGBF’S TENNER TREATS: 3 Café Kitchen: a large sharing platter with salads, terrines, tarts and meats The Abbey Hotel: a glass of house wine or beer, served with two bar snacks Apex City of Bath Hotel: Gentleman’s Tea to include scotch eggs, sliders and mackerel toasts Bailbrook House Hotel: roast dinner and a drink

or a Somerset cream tea for two Bath Pizza Co: a pizza and a drink CAU: a brunch dish with a Mimosa cocktail Chez Dominique: Cornish mussels in a bacon broth and a glass of wine The Clifton Sausage: a trio of gourmet sausages and mash plus a drink Garfunkels: offering a special menu for TGBF

The Mint Room: light lunch plus a glass of wine or refreshing nimbu panni (Indian long drink) The Pump Room: Buck’s Fizz breakfast The Roman Baths Kitchen: two courses The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa: Mussels with cider, fries, dipping bread and half a pint of local ale For more: page 76; www.greatbathfeast.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 85

Quality food • Great location • Free delivery

Our new website is now LIVE! Please use the code: ILOVESUSHI to get 10% discount. www.bathsushi.co.uk 01225 330508

Enjoy Bath’s finest & freshest local produce delivered to your door.

By bike. For free.

THREE

BAGS

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www.threebagsfulldelivery.co.uk | 07415 841841

CRITERION A U C T I O N E E R S

&

VA L U E R S

Inviting Entries

Country House Collections and Interiors Sale

Jewellery, Fashion, Collectibles, Fine Art, Silver & Plate, Asian Antiques, Furniture, Musical Instruments, Carpets & Rugs, Objets D’ Art, Ceramic & Glass Auction Location: Jaggards House, Jaggards Lane, Corsham, Wiltshire, SN13 9SF For more information and a free valuation, please contact | bath@criterionauctioneers.com +44 (0) 1225 439830 | www.criterionauctioneers.com Tracy Martin: Jewellery, Watches, Fashion & Collectables. Patrick Regan: Silver & Plate, Antiques & Collections. Charles Hoey: Fine Art, Ceramic & Glass. Lisa Haadem: Carpets, Rugs & Objets D’Art. Chris Kirkham: Asian Art, Antiques & Musical Instruments. Michael Bateman: General Antiques Valuer

Lot 43 – SOLD – £300 Lot 199

SOLD – £1,800

Lot 212 – SOLD – £2,000

Auction Dates 2017 Tuesday 26th September Tuesday 24th October Tuesday 28th November Tuesday 12th December

Lot 63 – SOLD – £1,550

Consignment Deadline Friday 18th August Friday 13th September Friday 13th October Friday 17th November

Lot 226 – SOLD – £550

Call (01225) 666 226 | Email: info@minimis.co.uk | Web: www.minimis.co.uk

Designer clothes for Boys and Girls

15% OFF for Bath Life readers with code BL15

Fashion/gifts/stores/more

A LABOUR OF LAVA

Jewellery and accessories designer and eco-activist Emma Aitchison – who’s from Freshford, near Bath, and grew up in the Somerset countryside – is passionate about sustainability and believes jewellery should not be a contributing factor in harming the planet or people. She launched her brand – Emma Aitchison Jewellery – when she became frustrated that she couldn’t find accessories that suited her style and taste and which were made with a conscious sustainable mind. Her designs are heavily inspired by nature, and her new collection for autumn – Lava – is influenced by the silhouettes of volcanoes and the behaviour of molten lava, and aims to remind us of Mother Nature’s unpredictable power and its resulting impact on human fragility.

Prices range from £60 – £1,500, and products are available from www.emmaaitchison.com

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IN STITCHES AS SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL SEWING MONTH, WE’VE BEEN ON THE HUNT FOR ALL THINGS HANDMADE AND TEXTILE-RELATED TO INSPIRE THE CRAFTER IN YOU

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Wool scarf, £39 This 100 per cent merino lambswool woven scarf, can be found in niche fashion house Clandar where heritage, quality and British craftsmanship are at the heart From Clandar, 15 Cheap Street, Bath; www.clandar.co.uk

Linen fabrics, from £79 per metre Whether you use them to make cushions, throws, tablecloths or clothes, the possibilities are endless when it comes to this East meets West fusion of fabrics From Indigo & Will’s, 3 George Street, Bath; www.indigoandwills.com

Various ribbons, from £1.10 per metre Although the lamp itself isn’t available to buy, the trimmings – including striped grosgrain and pleated satin ribbons – most certainly are From V V Rouleaux, 9 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath; www.vvrouleaux.com

Mouse with potted oak tree, £82 Fibre artist Susie Sage handmakes needle felted standing critters from her home in Widcombe. Her characters, such as this little mouse, can be up to a metre in height From Wild & Wool, Lyncombe Hill, Widcombe, Bath; www.wildandwool.co.uk

Jane Means ribbons, £2.50 each These decorative accessories are ideal to use for gift wrapping, or for crafty projects From The Foodie Bugle Shop, 2 Abbey Street, Bath; www.thefoodiebugleshop. com

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7. ARM CANDY

8.PURL OF WISDOM

9. CASE CLOSED

10. VERY MUCH SEW

Zinna herringbone scarf, £165 This super-soft scarf was made in Bath by the talented designer-weaver Katherine Fraser who also offers an in-house bespoke design service From Katherine Fraser, 74 Walcot Street, Bath; www.katherinefraser.co.uk

Chocolate designer handbag, £12 This newly launched design will appeal to lovers of fashion, lovers of the handmade, and lovers of white Belgian chocolate From Choc on Choc, based in Rode; www.choconchoc.co.uk

Bracelet loom, £39.75 Lightweight and portable, use this loom to make bespoke, funky bracelets for yourself and loved ones (is it too early to start thinking about Christmas presents right now?)

From A Yarn Story, 128 Walcot Street, Bath; www.ayarnstory.co.uk

Storage box, £9.95 Crafted from Paulownia wood, this ‘stuff’ box is perfect for stowing away your crafting accessories and essentials From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen. co.uk

Sewing kit, £14.95 Packed with goodies – from threads to thimbles – for all your sewing needs, this kit is the perfect starter pack for budding crafters From The Makery, Beau Nash House, 19 Union Passage, Bath; www.themakery.co.uk

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High Quality Dry Cleaning and Laundry Services

We use H - Solvent DF - 2000 in our range of solvents. This is one of the kindest and safest available to Dry Cleaners today. Ensuring top quality care for your precious clothes.

Van service available 6 Monmouth Place, Bath BA1 2AU Tel 01225 311595 Roadside parking outside shop for loading/unloading

Digger & Mojo WOODBOROUGH

ANTIQUES, INTERIORS & GIFTS END OF SUMMER WAREHOUSE SALE

We also restore antiques and update your furniture to order in our new Woodborough workshop

MENDING • PAINTING • REUPHOLSTERY OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 11am – 5pm Digger & Mojo, Woodborough Yard SN9 5PF (Behind the wonderful sticks & stones café)

AT WHITEHALL WOODBOROUGH GARDEN CENTRE

01672 851510 www.diggerandmojo.com

Ta i l o r i n g a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

a d v e rtisi n g f e at u r e X xx

well-dressed Clothes maketh the man (and woman), with Bath tailors suit the city dressing for success

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orking from an exclusive studio in the centre of Bath, Suit the City offers a professional tailoring service.

You can browse through the huge range of fabrics, linings and details that they offer, whilst enjoying a cup of great coffee.

You are seen at the Bath studio on an appointment only basis, so they can devote that time to you without interruption. Whether it is a selection of business suits for everyday wear, or that special garment for weddings or other special occasions, they will work with you closely to meet your requirements.

For those that prefer a more casual look they offer weekend wear for men and women, including sports jackets, shirts, chinos, overcoats and tweed jackets which are currently experiencing a resurgence due to their versatility.

All their garments are made-to-measure with bespoke details, suited to your personality,

lifestyle and budget. They have thousands of fabrics, hundreds of linings, and lots of finishing touches to choose from.

You might be surprised to know that beautiful two-piece pure British wool suits start from just £549, with luxury Holland & Sherry of Savile Row suits starting at just £895.

They are offering new customers £50 off the purchase of any luxury suit, jacket or overcoat.

Suit the City believe that bespoke tailoring is not just for a small minority, but should be for anyone who wants to look and feel great in their business or personal lives. Wearing bespoke clothes really boosts your self-esteem. You walk that little bit taller, and come over as confident and successful.

They are passionate about giving clients a first-class service, and will go that extra mile to make sure your requirements are met. If you can’t get to the studio, then they will visit you in your home or office all over Somerset.

Bath Studio, 29 Monmouth Street, Bath BA1 2DL 0800 011 2450; mike@suitthecity.com www.suitthecity.com

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

AUTUMNAL APPAREL

By L I SA E VA NS With futuristic shine, tailoring and confident hues on the agenda, the fresh batch of autumn 2017 style trends is playful yet powerful

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here’s a sophistication yet liveliness to the AW17 fashion scene. From vibrant colours – both cool and warm – that are best worn top-to-bottom, to space-age sheen, there’s no shortage of fun being had in design circles. Even the quick addition of a pair of flamboyant tights will bring your wardrobe into the here and now.

When it comes to a high-shine statement, on the AW17 catwalks, this consisted of full-drama chainmail, crystals and sequins, but in real life, we think a metallic shoe (as showcased on the facing page) will do. The tailoring trend is set to go global this month too – think distinctive shoulders, slim lines and sculptural silhouettes setting the tone for the new everyday uniform, both in and out of the office.

Elsewhere, you’ll see modest, muted blues pushing through – a definite ‘it’ colour – but comforting, enveloping reds and ports will warm up the palette and strike a confident chord among us. Colour coordination is a key aspect too – head-to-toe tonal outfits (as seen at Roksanda and Preen) are being rocked along with one accessory in a contrasting colour to set the whole thing off.

As for patterns, there are a mash-up of prints at the fore – from polka dots to checkboard and painterly designs, as well as touches of leopard print here and there.

The moral of the season seems to be that there is no specific, trend taking over – diversity in shape, style and shade is what makes fashion great, after all. w 94 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Left: Baum und Pferdgarten’s Davan faux fur coat, £429; Colenso jumper, £209; right: Amelia dress, £239; Livi faux fur bum bag, £99, from Grace & Mabel, 7 Broad Street, Bath; www.graceandmabel. co.uk

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1. Colette shirt dress, £79, Bibico, 9A Bartlett Street, Bath; www.bibico.co.uk 2. One We Made Earlier ‘Gia’ necklace, £50, Resident pop-up store (opening late September for the rest of the year), 94 – 96 Walcot Street, Bath; www.residentstore.co.uk 3. Sideline boilersuit, £200, Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk 4. Sugarhill Boutique shirt, £30, Clarks Village, Farm Road, Street; www.clarksvillage.co.uk 5. Manoush leopard print skirt, £279, Grace & Mabel, 7 Broad Street, Bath; www.graceandmabel.co.uk 6. Miracle Hourglass dress, £150, Rossiters of Bath, 38 – 41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 7. Shapes necklace, £39, Cos, 24 – 26 Union Street, Bath; www.cosstores.com 8. Texas Rose boots, £160, DuoBoots, 33 Milsom Street, Bath; www.tedandmuffy.com 9. Abramo bag, £179.95, and floral print scarf, £49.95, Franchetti Bond, 5 Upper Borough Walls, Bath; www.franchettibond.co.uk 10. Cheerful Chelsea boot, £79.99, Mistral, 20 New Bond Street, Bath; www.mistral-online.com www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 95

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

DIRECTORY We know you could give up shopping. But we also know you’re not a quitter...

Brora 6 Bridge Street, Bath 01225 331518 www.brora.co.uk Gieves & Hawkes 20 Old Bond Street, Bath 01225 463839 www.gievesandhawkes.com Grace & Mabel 7 Broad Street, Bath 01225 461274 www.graceandmabel.co.uk Grace & Ted 10 Kingsmead Square, Bath 01225 461518 www.graceandted.co.uk John Anthony 26 – 28 High Street, Bath 01225 424066 www.john-anthony.com Shop DuoBoots on Milsom Street

Get the look at Rossiters of Bath

Katherine Fraser 74 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 461341 www.katherinefraser.co.uk Kilver Court Kilver Street, Shepton Mallet 01749 340417 www.kilvercourt.com Kimberley Trim Street, Bath 01225 466817 www.kimberly.co.uk Loake 15 Green Street, Bath 01225 428081 www.loake.co.uk Maze 19 Green Street, Bath 01225 789398 www.mazeclothing.co.uk 96 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Mimi YuYu 12 Margaret’s Buildings Bath 01225 420333 www.mimiyuyu.com Oska 30 Upper Borough Walls Bath 01225 282824 www.uk.oska.com Suit The City 29 Monmouth Street, Bath 0800 0112450 www.suitthecity.com The Dress Agency 6 Widcombe Hill, Bath 01225 949640 The Dressing Room 7 Quiet Street, Bath 01225 330563 www.dressingroombath.com

N I G H T W E A R & B E A C H L I N G E R I E , I N F I N E S T T H E

7 Quiet Street Bath BA1 2JU T: 01225 330563 E: info@dressingroombath.com www.dressingroombath.com

D E N T I S T S a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Advanced Oral Care The wide-ranging specialist care available at bath dental clinic

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eaded by consultant in restorative dentistry, Paul HR Wilson FDS(RestDent), we offer bespoke and gentle specialist-led dental care in our relaxed, state-of-the-art clinical environment.

Introducing your team: Mr Paul HR Wilson: consultant in restorative dentistry; dental implants and cosmetic dentistry.

Mr Michael Hahn: specialist in oral surgery; dental extractions, oral surgery and facial pain.

Miss Safa Somi: specialist in prosthodontics; dental implants and cosmetic dentistry.

Miss Sarah Tukmachi: specialist in paediatric dentistry; children’s dentistry.

Bespoke dental treatment in the heart of the city

Mr Hatem Algraffee: specialist in periodontics; periodontal gum disease.

Mr Robert Kelly: specialist registrar in endodontics; root canal treatment.

To arrange an initial consultation call 01225 333848; or: www.bathdentalclinic.co.uk.

Saturday appointments available .

WiFi need improving?

Whatever the age, size, layout or shape of your property, we ensure you get a strong, reliable, fast WiFi connection – wherever you want it.

WiFi Where you Want It. Indoors. Outdoors. Anywhere.

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Bath Dental Clinic, Catharine Cottage, 21 Catharine Place, Bath. 01225 333848; www.bathdentalclinic.co.uk

CHARLOTTE HURD BEAUTY BEAUTY • LASER TECHNICIAN • HOLISTIC THERAPIST • DERMAPLANIST

BATH Not happy with your dentures? Are your dentures loose, too big or painful? Can’t eat or don’t like your smile?

Jaime Brain: Dip CDT RCS (Eng)

We can help you regain your confidence and get you smiling again.

Offering: FREE Consultation • New Dentures direct Flexible Dentures • Denture repairs Call us to book a free consultation on 01225 311 681 Saturday appointments available upon request 27 Walcot Buildings (The Old Pet Shop), Bath, BA1 6AD

Charlotte Hurd Beauty at Oldfield Surgery, 45 Upper Oldfield Park, Bath BA2 3HT Tel: 07725 369965 | Email: charbeauty1@gmail.com www.charlottehurdbeauty.com Bath Laser Clinic Tel: 01225 800428 | www.bathlaserclinic.com

www.jbdentureclinic.co.uk

Would you like to work in Media Sales?

We are always looking to hear from talented individuals who would like to work for MediaClash, presenting advertising opportunities and marketing solutions across our portfolio of fantastic local titles. We are a growing business and anticipate there being various opportunities over the next few months.

If you would like to join our continuing success story please email your CV to steve.hawkins@mediaclash.co.uk or give us a call anytime on 01225 475800 for a chat about the company, our magazines and available positions.

www.mediaclash.co.uk

Claire and her team of therapists invite you to a haven of relaxation and beauty in the centre of Bath. Formerly Jennifer Luckham’s Beauty Clinic, the newly named Beauty@ No.32 is one of the longest established salons in the city. Come and enjoy our new look and revitalised collection of treatments – we’d love to welcome you with the special voucher below.

All our treatments are personalised to your specific needs: Thalgo facial treatments • Body treatments & massages • CACI Non-Surgical Facelift • Manicures • Pedicures • Waxing and Electrolysis • Blissful beauty packages • Make-up from the fabulous new Jane Ireldale collection

To book call: 01225 428741 32 Monmouth Street, Bath BA1 2AN

www.beautyatnumber32.co.uk

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E V E T E R I N A RY C A R E

PERILS OF THE PANTRY BATH VETS SURGERY explains why our pets’ treats must be carefully chosen

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veryone loves to give their pet a treat, but what’s great on our plate might be dangerous for your pet. So here are some of the common foods that can be potentially toxic to our pets.

can lead to a rapid life-threatening decrease in blood sugar called hypoglycaemia in dogs.

is persin which causes vomiting, diarrhoea and fluid congestion in the lungs and heart.

Nutmeg - A hallucinogenic compound which can cause neurological signs in large doses.

Chocolate – A treat which many of us know can be dangerous to dogs. The toxic agent is theobromine which acts as a stimulant. Dark (plain) chocolate can be particularly dangerous even in small doses. Chocolate toxicity can lead to heart problems, seizures and kidney failure if left untreated.

Mouldy foods – Old cheese or decomposed foods contain mycotoxins which cause tremors and fits. Beans, peanuts and rice can develop mould which releases aflatoxin causing central nervous system disorders.

Store these goodies out of reach of your pets and remember, when you are whipping up a tasty treat in the kitchen, stop and think about which food you share with your dog or cat as it can be potentially perilous.

If you know your pet has eaten any of these foods, we advise you to see your vet within 20 minutes of ingestion. After this period of time the food will start to be digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. Your vet has medications to induce safe and effective vomiting; if you attempt to make your pet vomit at home it may not be successful and may waste precious time. For further information please contact a client care nurse at the Bath Vets Surgery close to you.

Grapes or raisins – They contain a chemical, as yet to be isolated, that can cause kidney failure in dogs. Their toxic dose varies, some dogs may only experience gastrointestinal disturbances while others can be very seriously ill.

Onions – Toxic compounds called organosulfoxides affect the red blood cells of both cats and dogs but especially cats, altering haemoglobin leading to problems with oxygen uptake, destruction of red blood cells and anemia.

Xylitol – This is an artificial sweetener found in low calorie food such as chewing gum. It

Alcohol – Ethanol is a toxic product that can cause weakness, unsteady gait and low body temperature.

Raw bread dough – The toxic compound is once again ethanol which is produced by yeast. In addition, raw dough can cause a gaseous gut and also lead to obstruction in the intestines.

Macadamia nuts – These contain an unknown toxin which causes tremors and increased heart rate in dogs, similar to chocolate toxicity.

If chocolate and macadamia nuts are eaten together their toxicity is increased.

Rosemary Lodge, Wellsway, Bath BA2 5RL 01225 832 521 www.bathvetgroup.co.uk f Bath.Vet.Group

Avocados – Theses are poisonous to birds, dogs and rodents. The active toxic ingredient www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 103

A r c h i t e c t s a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Meet the architect We meet the skilled professionals who will turn your building aspirations into reality

tristan rhodes

Stride Treglown; 01225 466173 www.stridetreglown.com How long have you been an architect?

I’ve been an architect for over 15 years and have recently moved to run Stride Treglown’s Bath office following a number of years in Bristol. Since 2013 I’ve also been the practice’s head of workplace, undertaking a range of projects providing organisations across the UK with environments that help them meet their objectives and give staff inspiring places to work.

What has been your proudest professional moment?

I’m excited by the prospect of working with the Bath team on their projects across a wide range of sectors including university buildings, student accommodation, schools and housing. I’m very proud that our recently completed refurbishment of 20 Manvers Street is 100 per cent let while reinvigorating a building that was looking tired and bringing real improvements to the local streetscape. I thinks that quite neatly sums up the challenge of being an architect: creating something that fulfills the objectives not just of your client, but of the people who are going to use the building (often different) and of the public at large.

David hadfield

Hadfield+Noblin Architects 01249 714229 david@hadfieldarch.com On Facebook: HadfieldNoblinArchitects

What’s the most important quality in being an architect?

Optimism, having an open mind with no preconceptions, listening to your clients and developing a rigorous brief, imagination tempered by practicality and sublimation of ego – it’s always the clients building and is ultimately available to all.

What areas of architecture do you specialise in?

Houses, particularly one-off commissions. Everyone experiences, dreams and gets emotionally involved in their homes – it’s a real achievement when you get the unsolicited call saying “we just love it!”

What made you want to become an architect?

I vaguely recall that at the age of 10 I announced I was going to be an architect, and being the fourth of five children growing up on a council estate in the north this was met with some astonishment. I’m sure this reaction made me even more determined.

What is your favourite material ?

Wonderwall/SIPS, a lightweight cladding system. For more see our Facebook page.

104 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Ines noblin

Hadfield+Noblin Architects 01249 714229 ines@hadfieldarch.com On Facebook: HadfieldNoblinArchitects How long have you been an architect?

I worked in a number of practices during my achitectural studies in Paris. After qualifying, I started to work in one of the biggest, Architects Agency, in France. There, during 10 years, I got strong experience on large scale projects including hospitals, shopping centres and office buildings.

And since April 2016 I have worked for Hadfield Associates Architects, which will become Hadfield+Noblin Architects this autumn.

How do you describe your practice?

We are a very complementary team. David is noted for his design ability particularly in housing and is well-established in the Bath area. As for me, I bring my experience gained on a large range of projects as well as my French touch!

How do you define an architect’s work?

To understand and define the client’s needs and desires, whatever the nature of the work is, new build, extension or refurbishment. The project has to be moulded until we get the right shape.

Ian Walker

CaSa Architects; 01225 851871 www.casa-architects.com Tell us about your practice?

CaSA is a successful, awardwinning RIBA chartered practice of 12 architects based in Batheaston. This summer we joined clients past and present to celebrate our ten year anniversary, with a party at one of our recently completed houses in Bath.

What has been your proudest professional moment?

Meeting with residents, parents and staff at the opening ceremony of the multi-award winning pottery and weavery workshops for the Lantern Community in Dorset for people with learning disabilities.

What sets you apart from other architects?

Our unique ability to create high quality, contemporary design which is highly sustainable as well as being specifically tailored to our clients’ values, personalities and aspirations.

What does the future hold?

New projects in London and the South East, and a second office in the capital.

Spreading sustainability and sensitive contemporary design to a wider audience.

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e A r c h i t e c t s

Paul Rogers

CMS Architects Ltd (part of the CMS Group); 01249 701333 www.cms-group.co @TheCMSGroup What areas of architecture do you specialise in?

I’ve been at my current practice, CMS, since 2001 when it primarily specialised in healthcare projects, since then we have grown and diversified to work in all sectors. As associate director I now generally head up the education and healthcare projects, which I find particularly interesting.

Which individual project have you most enjoyed working on?

Corsham Primary School stands out as one of my favourite and most rewarding projects, there we had a great client who supported our sustainable design philosophy allowing us to build in large clay blocks like giant LEGO to create an extremely low energy use building which the children loved.

Which project have you found the most challenging?

This has to be the Bristol Royal Infirmary. The proposal sounds simple, a new modular building to provide pre-assessment services, the site however was on the roof of the five-storey King Edward Building located on one of the busiest roads in the centre of Bristol.

How long have you been an architect?

I studied at Cardiff University and became chartered in 2006.

Suzanne Thurlow

Hetreed Ross Architects 01225 851860 st@hetreedross.com www.hetreedross.com What’s the most important quality required to be a successful architect?

Quite apart from the ability to visualise and design amazing spaces, being a good communicator is essential: We undertake many bespoke residential projects where being able to listen to and interpret a client’s ideas and guiding them through all aspects of the building process depends on clear communication both visual and verbal.

How long have you been an architect?

I have been in practice for 30 years, in London and then Bath and have worked with Hetreed Ross Architects since 2008.

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

Delighting a client with the “WOW” factor. When we achieve that AND give them something special that they had never imagined possible, whatever the budget, it is highly rewarding and deeply satisfying.

Which project have you found the most challenging?

We were tasked with designing a contemporary addition to Dry Arch House in Wiltshire, a house in the green belt with specific volume planning constraints. The result was a stunning contemporary addition, which dramatically enhanced the home.

Andrew Brooks

James Bastable

Associate architect SRA Architects LLP 01225 827444 www.sra-architects.co.uk

Director, DKA 01225 465 701 www.dka.co.uk

How long have you been an architect?

I have worked in the construction industry since 2004. My first job was for a main contractor in Edinburgh rebuilding the prison as part of the site management team. Since then, I have worked in various architecture practices in New Zealand, Australia, London and have been working in Bath for the last three and a half years.

What’s the most important quality required to be a successful architect?

Listening: an essential part of the process is our ability to listen to our clients’ aspirations to allow us to fulfil their vision. Tenacity: good design in architecture takes the full lifetime of the project to achieve and this is a constant process of testing and refining what the best design and solution is. Collaboration: constructing any building or project takes a great number of separate parties and therefore a huge amount of collaboration.

Which individual project have you most enjoyed working on?

My most enjoyable and challenging project has tested the qualities above. It is a new head office for AB Dynamics in Bradford on Avon, who are world class engineers making car testing equipment for the top manufacturers around the world. They commissioned us to design a building that would reflect their company: progressive, dynamic and highly technologically advanced.

What areas of architecture do you specialise in?

When the practice was established in 1993, there was a conscious decision not to be sector specific. Work tends to peak and trough in any given sector, especially in times of financial uncertainty and having a wide portfolio helps to protect against that.

Over the years the practice has developed a strong client and experience base in the education, healthcare and commercial sectors as well as being involved in defence, social care, residential and many other projects.

What’s the most important quality required to be a successful architect?

First and foremost an architect needs to be able to design a building. You need to understand how the building will go together and therefore have an understanding of other engineering disciplines.

You need to be able to lead and manage a client, design and construction team through all stages of a project.

What sets you apart from other architects?

As well as our diverse project portfolio and our specialist knowledge of some project sectors, we have aimed to develop supplementary services that can enhance our core architectural services or be delivered in their own right.

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A r c h i t e c t s a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Andy Brown

Architectural director Moon andy@ moonarchitectandbuilder. co.uk; 0117 973 3284; www. moonarchitectandbuilder.co.uk How many people work in your practice?

Nine in the design team (architects and interior designers), we also have project managers and a graphic designer in the office.

How long have you been an architect?

17 years. The practice was established 15 years ago.

What areas of architecture do you specialise in?

Creating new or transforming existing houses for our clients – refurbishments, extensions and new builds.

We have also completed a few restaurant projects, the odd office and some larger scale housing for developers.

We enjoy producing considered and finely crafted buildings, no matter what they will be used for.

Where are your offices?

We have three offices in the area, Bath, Bristol and Cheltenham

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

Creating spaces that give people something more than they expected when they first came to us.

One of the most rewarding aspects of working on people’s homes is seeing them living in the spaces once we have finished our work.

Kevin Murphy

Managing director Aaron Evans Architects 01225 466234 kevinm@aaronevans.com www.aaronevans.com How long have you been an architect?

I moved to Bath to study architecture in 1982. I joined Aaron Evans in 1994 and now have over 30 years’ professional experience.

Next year our practice, which currently numbers 11 staff, celebrates its 40th anniversary.

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

Each project, particularly in Bath, presents a new set of challenges. As an architect this keeps you on your toes, encourages innovation and keeps your thinking fresh; learning through experience is a continual process.

I also get to meet and work with a wide range of interesting people.

Lucy Murawski

Western Building Consultants 01225 789307; Lucy@ westernbuildingconsultants. co.uk; www. westernbuildingconsultants. co.uk What’s the most important quality required to be a successful architect?

Stay on top of things that you want to complete within set time, and communicate with clients and colleagues so everyone knows what to expect and when tasks are due.

How long has your practice been established for?

For 13 years What are the misconceptions about being an architect?

That drawings or presentations are very quickly done. It all takes time and hard work.

What areas of architecture do you specialise in?

I work in all sectors of the profession but specialise in complex, challenging projects, large and small, that require creativity and lateral thinking to find a solution.

These can include both new buildings and interventions with historic buildings.

What are the particular challenges of being an architect in Bath?

The heritage planning framework for B&NES Council has to be in the mind of an architect at all times to make a planning application successful. An architect has to advise the client what to expect, and maybe even how to challenge the council in order to obtain the best result for both sides.

What sets you apart from other architects?

We’re experienced, tenacious, client-focused and user friendly with a bespoke approach to project design and delivery. We are also fun to work with!

What sets you apart from other architects ?

We are multi-disciplinary. I am qualified in the UK and Germany, and enjoy working in the technical aspects of builds that some architects shy away from.

106 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Nick Shipp

Nick Shipp Architects Ltd 01225 312655 www.nickshipp.com

What are the most rewarding aspects of the job?

Without doubt, the privilege of being commissioned by interesting clients and the opportunity to provide environments that I believe building users and observers deserve, and to pursue the passion for what we love to do.

What’s the most important quality required to be a successful architect?

The ability to understand multiple design criteria simultaneously and translate these into places that meet the aspirations of a client’s brief for architecture that is thoughtful, practical, elegant in detail and efficient for cost, durability and environmental design.

What are the biggest challenges facing your profession over the next few years?

We engage with vast numbers of consultative documents, authorities and mandates.

These frequently swamp the creative design requirements of our profession to stifle the bravery we need to purvey, imagine and create buildings that have recognised architectural merit.

What sets you apart from other architects?

I hope to believe that we offer a personal service from a practice that is very well connected into an excellent network of local consultants to create great architectural solutions.

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E L I G H T I N G

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Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

B AT H G E T S S ER I O US The South West is going high-tech; inset: Evan Wienburg

SPONSORED BY:

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

EXPANSION

BETTER CONNECTED A £75m investment will see broadband go ultrafast across the South West A company founded just two years ago has secured a £75m investment to roll out an ultrafast broadband network across the South West.

Broadband provider TrueSpeed, in Newton St Loe, already provides the super-quick service to homes throughout the Chew Valley and Somerset, but the multi-million pound investment will enable it to further roll out the network across the South West.

“This is brilliant news for the residents and businesses in our region,” says TrueSpeed’s CEO Evan Wienburg.

“This brand-new infrastructure will be capable of handling the speed requirements of our customers now, and in the future, at a competitive price and with a regional service focus.

“My whole team is very much looking forward to working with Aviva Investors and delivering some of

the fastest and most reliable internet found anywhere in the world.”

Aviva Investors is the global asset management business of Aviva, with the investment allowing the company to accelerate its expansion strategy.

It needs 30 per cent of people in an area to sign up to its service, in order to install the brandnew network which is independent from BT’s infrastructure.

TrueSpeed will use Western Power poles for connectivity, with full fibre to the premises (FTTP) provided to people’s homes using existing infrastructure for minimal disruption.

www.truespeed.com

“RUNNING THE PREMISES IS THE HARDEST PART – I’VE HAD TO BE A PLUMBER AND AN ELECTRICIAN IN THE LAST YEAR” Zara Perry on multi-tasking.

Page 116

£75m THE BIG NUMBER

The amount being spent on faster broadband For more, see opposite

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 111

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ONE TO WATCH

ALEXANDRA MAY

PHOTO BY PIXIE APP

This Bath shop is an Aladdin’s cave of jewellery and trinkets, with some of its stunning and eclectic pieces worn at the Brits and the Baftas

All that glitters can be found in store

Tell us a little about your background...

I’ve always loved jewellery and have worked hard to be able to be able to follow my passion.

I studied at the London College of Fashion then worked as a stylist for magazines, before managing the fabulous London shops for textile designer Georgina Von Etzdorf.

After eight years, I decided to go it alone and opened my own shop in Bath in 1997.

What did you want to be when you were little?

A marine biologist until I realised I was more of a creative type than scientific. I’m still fascinated by marine life though. I was also going to be a famous actress until stage fright got the better of me...

What was your first job?

I’ve been in the jewellery trade since I was very young.

My mother had a shop in Caracas, Venezuela, where I grew up, and made sure I was always kept busy making things, serving customers and being trained in the art of buying, selling and collecting.

What occasions do people buy your jewellery for?

All occasions. Jewellery for daily wear as well as special pieces for weddings, cruises and gifts. We have also sold jewellery to be worn at awards ceremonies such as the Baftas and the Brits.

What’s your favourite piece?

My favourite personal piece is my wedding ring which was designed

by Theo Fennell. The stone is an extremely rare alexandrite, which changes colour from green to purple. It is surrounded by diamonds, and is a very beautiful symbol of my happy marriage.

In the shop, my favourite piece at the moment is the Luke Stockley super-wide sterling silver marcasite cuff.

The clever thing about this cuff is that it can be specially made to size depending on your wrist.

We’re expecting several new deliveries at the moment, plus will soon be stocking the work of fabulous designer Simon Harrison, so I suspect I’ll be adding many more favourites to the list soon.

MY LOVE OF COLOUR COMES FROM MY LATIN ROOTS

Tell us about about your business and your eclectic range...

There has always been jewellery, beautiful scarves and antiquities in my shop but, until last year, I also had curios and toys. I now stock a huge range of collectible costume jewellery from cult designers around the world, classic silver and marcasite, and scarves so beautiful that I couldn’t resist them.

What are the best aspects of your job?

The buying. Finding the perfect piece of jewellery for a customer.

What was your proudest moment in business?

My shop has been here for 20 years but this year I took the plunge and reinvented my business to showcase what I’m really passionate about – jewellery.

Tell us something about you that might surprise us…

I was born in South America to an English mother and Italian father.

People are generally surprised to find this out as I appear to be so ‘English’.

My passionate love of colour, patterns and bold designs is extremely Latin. I am also fluent in Spanish which often shocks my Spanishspeaking customers. www.alexandramay.com

112 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

Simon Holdsworth and Mary Chant

LAW AND ORDER Bath law firm Thrings has appointed commercial and corporate specialist Mary Chant as partner.

Mary advises businesses on commercial and contractual arrangements, including drafting and negotiating commercial agreements, joint ventures and data protection.

“I have long believed that legal advice cannot be provided in a vacuum and am always keen to understand my clients’ commercial drivers in order to provide the most appropriate advice,” she says.

“I enjoy offering solutions, and am excited to have the opportunity to work for a forward-thinking law firm which places such a premium on helping its clients realise their strategic aims and ambitions.” www.thrings.com

WHERE THERE’S A WILL Solictors in Bath are writing wills at greatly reduced prices until 30 September in aid of the RUH’s Forever Friends Appeal. This is the third year that solicitors in the city have taken part in the event, with a single will costing £100, or £150 for a joint will.

Solicitors taking part are Burningham & Brown, Mowbray Woodwards, Helen Starkie, Mogers Drewett, Royds Withy King and BLB Solcitors, and they’ll also update wills. www.foreverfriendsappeal. co.uk

BOARDWALK Bath City FC is looking for a new director to join its board.

Applicants for the voluntary role at the community-owned club should have a strong business background, particularly from sporting or food and drink industries. www.bathcityfc.com

University of Bath rugby players in action at The Rec

BATH RUGBY NEWS Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters Education and rugby have joined forces in a move which could see more players coming through from the University of Bath.

Bath Rugby and Team Bath will share coaches and have a training programme for the Bath Academy and the university, with an emphasis on the BUCS Super Rugby programme and developing the coaching and analysis side of the game.

Bath Rugby Academy manager Andy Rock says, “There is strong evidence that some players develop later and we will actively work with the university to develop their Super Rugby squad alongside our academy which, in turn, could produce vibrant, new talent for Bath Rugby.

“The importance of high performing partnerships has never been more important both for developing talent in

rugby terms, and in supporting high-quality education.”

The partnership will help the university’s rugby department develop players off the field as well.

“It enables an exciting opportunity for our coaches to work with the university’s rugby department and create a fully embedded working relationship to aid the development of everyone involved,” says Stuart Hooper, Bath Rugby’s player and performance director.

The University of Bath’s first game of the 2017-18 BUCS Super Rugby season is against Leeds Beckett University at the Sports Training Village on 27 September at 6.30pm. Admission is free.

For more: www.bathrugby.com

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY From city centre conferences to networking breakfasts, make a note of these dates and make them work for you 1 9 SE PTE MBE R

26 SEP TEMBER

Business breakfast – The Future of Work at Bath Function Rooms, Green Park Station, Bath; 8am – 10am; www.eventbrite.co.uk

Bath, Bristol and Corsham Cyber Cluster Club with networking, talks and presentations.

Bath Function Rooms; 5pm www.eventbrite.co.uk

1 9 SE PTE MBE R

Bath Low Carbon Business Breakfast looking at cross laminated timber (CLT) and innovation in construction.

Integral Engineering Design; 7.45am; £7-£14; www.lowcarbonsouthwest.co.uk

3 O C TO BER

Networking for Young Entrepreneurs and Ambitious Professionals (YENA). YENA brings ambitious professionals under the age of 35 together for networking, development,

socialising and support.

Bath Brew House; 6.30pm. www.eventbrite.co.uk 16 O C TO B ER

Bath Life Business Club with guest speaker Tom Lewis, owner of the award-winning The Guild co-working hub. BLBC’s are sell-out affairs, so book early.

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa; 12pm; £50; www.bathlifebusinessclub.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 113

Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires

HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH to host both short-term and long-term students.

We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation.

For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, KIE Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com

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FANTASTIC FOUR Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now

MAKEOVER MERGER A new interior design firm has been created in Bath following the merger of two leading businesses.

Etons of Bath has been formed from Latham Interiors and Eton Design, with its studio, showroom and curtain and upholstery workshop at 108 Walcot Street.

Latham Interiors was founded by Sarah Latham in 2010, and works on both listed and significant Georgian projects.

Eton Design was founded in Bath seven years ago by Peter Higgins, and has worked on residential and leisure projects in London and the West Country.

Sarah Latham says, “We are delighted that the two firms have come together to create Etons of Bath. Our aim is to combine the highest level of interior design, fabric and window dressing services with our expertise in Georgian and Regency properties, to create classically inspired

Style by design

KEY DATES REVEALED FOR BIGGEST-EVER BATH LIFE AWARDS interiors in London and the South West.’’

The firm will offer services for residential, commercial and hospitality customers including full interior design, space planning, procurement and installation.

Eton’s of Bath is to launch an interactive Stylefinder App to help customers find the perfect pieces and designs for their homes. www.etonsofbath.com

THE BIG SQUEEZE Juice Recruitment has expanded with the opening of an office in Swindon.

The recruitment company has added to its popular offices in Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham and Trowbridge, with the new office, allowing it to expand into Wiltshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire.

Emma Summers, managing director of Juice Recruitment Ltd, says, “At Juice we have many fantastic and loyal clients in and around Swindon and it has become fundamental for us to have a firm base in the town.

Nicholas is ready to dazzle

“We are continually looking for opportunities to grow and expand our client base particularly in and around the M4 corridor, allowing us to extend our services to those clients positioned in and around the north Wiltshire.”

The Swindon office will be managed by James Lovejoy.

“Juice’s offering is unique, and this is demonstrated in not only the candidates we provide, but the service we deliver,” he says.

For more: www.juicerecruitment.com

James is ready to deliver

Bath businesses are urged to make a note in their diaries, as key dates for the 2018 Bath Life Awards are revealed.

First up is a free How To Win a Bath Life Award seminar, which will take place on 20 October. This hourlong event explains what the judges are looking for, and how to marshal your case for a winning nomination.

Register on the Bath Life Awards site to attend. The site also has full details of how to enter, and includes top tips to maximise your chances.

For the first time at the Awards, there will be no tickets on open sale for the Ball Room, due to an unprecedented number of sponsors backing Bath’s leading business event. A strictly limited number of Silver Sponsorships, including special tables for eight in either the Ball Room or Tea Room, will go on sale on 25 September at midday on the site.

The 2017 Awards saw over 290 Nominations, a record number of finalists, and a sell-out evening event with over 500 guests and a further 140 on the waiting list.

The current roster of sponsors is led by Headline Sponsor The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, together with its brand partner Taittinger. Platinum Sponsor is Bristol Airport and the other main sponsors are: Bath BID, Savills, DATES FOR Novia, Bath Rugby, Apex Hotels, YOUR DIARY: Bluefin, Minuteman, Tile & 20 OCTOBER: How to Flooring, First Bus, Kersfield, Win Seminar Bryers, Clifton Marquee Com6 NOVEMBER: pany, SoVision, Fidelius, Bath Nominations open Audi, Hawker Joinery, Stone 16 JANUARY: Finalists revealed King, Homelets, Bath VW, Circo 5 FEBRUARY: and Enlightened.

Finalists’ and The Bath Life Awards are on 1 Sponsors’ Reception March at the Assembly Rooms.

1 MARCH: Bath Life

For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

Awards 2018

SHINING BRIGHT Indie Bath jeweller Nicholas Wylde is celebrating 30 years in business, and puts the longevity of his eponymous shop down to offering a bespoke service, innovative designs and unequalled customer service.

Pieces are both designed and made on-site, with Nicholas saying the success is down to what he has dubbed ‘the Wylde effect’, at both

his Northumberland Place and Bristol shops.

“That’s superb craftsmanship, and exclusive jewellery pieces in our distinctive style, delivered by dedicated staff resulting in happy clients,” he says.

“I’m proud to be celebrating 30 years in business this year and feel in Bath, particularly, indie shops

must remain the focus of Bath’s retail scene in order for the city to retain its charm and character. Working together to promote ourselves and this unique city is vital.”

Nicholas Wylde is offering customers 30 per cent off 200 items as part of the birthday celebrations.

For more: www.nicholaswylde.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 115

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BATH LIFE AWARDS 2017

HAIR & BEAUTY WINNER

ZARA PERRY Zara started out sweeping up in a hairdressing salon before going on to run her own. She explains why her Bath Life Award makes her feel a cut above the rest...

Billie Harris and Zara Perry get ready to party

So how did it feel to win a Bath Life Award? How did you celebrate? And where is your award now?

I was totally gobsmacked. I didn’t see it coming at all, especially being against such huge competitors. It was a real honour just to have my name beside theirs. We celebrated how I always celebrate – with prosecco!

Our award is centre stage on our reception desk – although I did carry it around with me for a while…

What do you think makes Zara Parry Hairdressing stand out from its competitors in the city?

We’re friendly and welcoming and I feel I’m extremely lucky with my team and clients as we’re like a huge family. Clients know they don’t have to be having their hair done if they want to pop in, some just for coffee, some have even popped by to show me a pair of shoes they have bought (I love shoes). With every client, it’s like a journey; I’ve done some clients’ hair for years, and am kind of a family friend.

But, most importantly, we make sure we are still professional, listening to their wants and needs, also researching new looks for them before they arrive.

How did you get into doing what you do?

Weirdly, my mum used to have her weekly blow dry and I used to love running around for the stylists cleaning up and sweeping up the hair.

The salon (in Yate) then offered me a Saturday job and before I knew it I was working full time on an apprenticeship; I feel so lucky to have found something I love with a passion.

Has it met or exceeded your initial plans, and your expectations? If so, how?

My initial plan was never to open my own salon so I guess yes, hugely. I wouldn’t change any of the decisions I’ve made over the past few years as it’s led me to where I am now. When people ask me for my occupation, I still say, 116 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“Oh, I’m a hairdresser.”

Then my friends nudge me and point out I own a salon! It’s so surreal to think it’s mine, with my name above the door; that proud feeling always takes me by surprise.

and an electrician in the last year…

Do you think being an active part of the community is important in business?

Massively. I’ve worked in Bath for 10 years now and I really wouldn’t work anywhere else, people ask me if I’m going to open another salon but I always say, “Where?” Bath is such a lovely community and has so many groups of people wanting to help which is lovely.

Without the people of Bath, I wouldn’t have a business, so it’s always good to help and thank the community.

What advice would you give someone looking to go into this sector?

Plan, plan, plan. Be prepared and stay organised, but most of all smile and enjoy it. It really is so much fun.

I STILL SAY I’M A HAIRDRESSER THEN I REALISE I ACTUALLY OWN A SALON What do you love most about your job?

Making people smile and feel good about themselves; when a client leaves the salon and they have a smile from ear to ear, you really can’t beat that, that is my favourite part. But there is also the aspect of transformation; we’ve had a few clients recently that have gone from short blonde hair to long dark hair. I love doing these.

Have there been some tricky times for your business?

No business owner can say there hasn’t, you just have to ride out the tricky bits to enjoy the fun bits because there are always lots of those. Running the premises is the hardest part because most of the problems are either out of your hands or not your fault, however it’s you that has to solve them. I’ve had to be a plumber

What do you aim to achieve in the next couple of years?

More Bath Life Awards...

What are the current hair trends?

Fringes. I love a fringe and I’m so happy they are back. From the typical schoolgirl fringe to long and choppy. I have even cut mine back in.

What do you love about being in Bath?

I can’t choose just one thing, there’s so much.

The people are super friendly, and the city is just beautiful, rain or shine. I love that you can just pop out for a drink or food after work, the options are endless and all amazing. I’m such a sociable person and Bath is so flexible to be a city and still feel like a large town.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

A client told me when I opened, “Work is not why you were put on this earth, it just funds what you love doing the most.”

I’ll never forget this, it’s why I make working at Zara Perry Hairdressing so exciting and fun every day.

Who are your business heroes?

Locally, Melanie Giles. I’ve always said I will have just the one salon, and I will, but I love how ambitious and driven Melanie is.

Tell us something that might surprise us…

I’m a Girl Guide leader, and in my spare time I help out at a Bristol Guide unit – I love it. www.zphairdressing.co.uk

OPEN FOR BUSINESS We talk to the new Bath BID communications manager and two business managers about how the BID supports their work and enhances the city

ALLISON HERBERT, Bath BID’s communication and commercial manager, came to Bath as a student in 1989 and never left.

What expertise do you bring to Bath BID? Before coming to Bath I ran my own online business and did freelance project management work across Somerset, working

118 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

on public and private sector projects. My most notable achievement has been setting up the St Catherine’s Artisan Market in Frome, which has of course now become the hugely successful Frome Independent Market. I am very pleased that it has gone on to be so important to the town.

Tell us a little about Bath BID… The Bath BID has existed for seven years and we have almost 700 levy payers. Originally created to serve the interests of businesses based within the BID boundary area, it is responsible to its levy payers to improve the environment for businesses in the city and enable them to succeed. We currently provide nil-to-landfill business waste services at a very competitive price, provide night rangers and monitor the taxi ranks at weekends, carry out planned and responsive cleaning throughout the city centre, and work with colleagues at Visit Bath to provide events which will create the footfall which our businesses rely on.

My role is a new one and will focus on developing our promotional work, external marketing and internal communications with our levy payers and partners. If you are a new manager of a Bath BID business, please get in touch so that we can help you to make the most of the BID.

Any exciting news or plans for the BID? My first project with the BID is the At Home in Bath event. We are running a week-long promotion with events being hosted inside Bath BID businesses from 23-27 October this year. Businesses in the city have been very creative with their suggestions, and we are busy co-ordinating the details. I am particularly looking forward to the colour workshop at Anthropologie. I always love the way they dress their windows, so I am hoping for an inspiring session.

After that my focus will be on Bath at Christmas, reminding people that Bath has so much to offer even when the market is not here, and encouraging local people to come in and enjoy the city midweek when it is a bit more relaxed.

Tell us something unusual about yourself...

I am in the middle of writing the lyrics for a new musical of Hansel and Gretel, this year’s Christmas show at the Merlin Theatre in Frome. I spend my weekends thinking up rhymes for gingerbread (I haven’t found one) and suitable material for a wicked witch. It is a great contrast to my day job. www.bathbid.co.uk

M E M B E R S P R O F I L E B AT H B I D

have different preferences in decorating their homes to our Glasgow customers, which I find very interesting. In Glasgow people tend to opt for bright velvets, whereas here our customers have a preference for more neutral fabric colours in linens and cottons.

Tell us a little about sofa.com...

Sofa.com is an energetic and expanding company with eight permanent showrooms in the UK, as well as three pop-up showrooms which will be open until the New Year. The Bath showroom opened almost three years ago, eight years after our original Chelsea showroom first opened its doors.

From design to delivery, every element has been managed by a sofa.com team member,

LORRAINE BOOTH is the new manager of sofa.com at 5-6 The Corridor. She may have only been in the city for two months but already has our home décor habits sussed.

Where where you before Bath?

I’ve come to Bath from Glasgow, and was managing the showroom there. I’ve been in Bath around eight weeks now.

What do you think of the city?

I love Bath. It is very different from Glasgow in many ways, our Bath customers

Molton Brown Bath’s assistant manager JAMIE MYLES finds the city an ideal place to work.

What brings you to Bath and what do you think of the city?

A promotion opportunity within the company to join the team, and I arrived about two months ago. Before that I worked in the Cribbs Causeway store.

It’s a beautiful place to be and the culture here is so unique, it makes for such an enjoyable place to work – and the team are wonderful, it feels like the right place for me.

Tell us a little about Molton Brown...

We’ve been bath and body connoisseurs since 1973 and the products are still made by us in London. We are proud to have a royal warrant from the Queen. At Molton Brown we are fragrance experts and travel the world

BATH BID ARE A FANTASTIC ORGANISATION AND REALLY INTERESTED IN HELPING LOCAL BUSINESSES DO AS WELL AS POSSIBLE

not a third party, which is something we are very proud of.

Any exciting news or plans for the business?

We are really excited that our new Autumn/Winter collection is now available in showrooms. The new collection includes a ‘build a bed’ option and Hypnos mattresses (both sofa.com firsts), new stunning sofa styles and extended ranges, as well as new fabrics including two designs from artisan tile experts Bert & May as part of our Design Lab collaboration series.

How does Bath BID support businesses?

They are a fantastic organisation and really interested in helping local businesses do as well as possible. They offer great incentive schemes and their lines of communication are fantastic, with regular visits and emails about upcoming events and activities, such as a half-term project coming up in October, which we are proud to be taking part in. We have an arts and crafts workshop and also a possible cookery demonstration running that week that we’d love people to come into the showroom and experience.

Tell us something unusual about yourself…

I am a certified PADI rescue diver with over 100 logged scuba dives to date. www.sofa.com

to find exotic and rare ingredients which make up the blends in our bath and body products. It’s very much a sensory experience when visiting us.

Any exciting business news?

We are having a re-fit this month. We’re inviting everyone to come and see our new store in Union Street on 29 September, when we will be bigger and brighter than ever.

Customers will also be able to see our first sets of Christmas items.

What are the benefits of Molton Brown Bath working with the BID? The maintenance level here is brilliant and attentive, it’s great to see Bath take such pride in its appearance. www.moltonbrown.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 119

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

MANOR OF THE MOMENT With its fascinating history and Nordic interior, the Grade-II* listed Warleigh Manor House in Warleigh, Bathford, will make for a jaw-dropping new home for its future owner

By E V E LY N GR E E N 120 LIFELIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112 II BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 121 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 113

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

Y

ou may have already noticed the Scandinavian theme running through this issue, and, by way of coincidence, the incredible Warleigh Manor House we’ve chosen to feature on these pages has a chic, minimalist edge when it comes to the décor. Ok, the image of the property’s magnificent entrance hall, complete with a library and drawing room, which we’ve decided to feature on our front cover, may not exactly live up to the Scandi rule of ‘less is more’, but other rooms most certainly do.

Take the clutter-free master bedroom, for example, in which washed grey wood complements white walls, and in which the simplistic accessories give the space a chance to shine. And the well-proportioned living area, dressed in cool tones, lives and breathes stylish, functional design.

And even when the furniture is removed ready for the future owner of this house to move in, the character will remain, as will those immense windows which allow light to rush into the rooms.

The property has a fascinating and detailed history spanning several centuries. Its origins date back to 1815 when Henry Skrine had Warleigh Manor built for the occupation of his own family. The property has, within recent times, evolved, seen a number of changes and transformations, and has taken on a new dimension.

Built of mellow, buttery Bath stone with an imposing castellated façade, this impressive country house has been the subject of an imaginative and flawless restoration project, using the best quality materials available, with fine craftsmanship and engineering skill. An eye for 122 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: the breath-taking panoramic views; the living room boasts floor-toceiling windows and a structural style; a sleek and cool bedroom; light floods the modern kitchen

HOUSE NUMBERS

4,487

square foot of space

4

bedrooms

2

garages

£3M price

2.4

acres of grounds

precision, with meticulous planning and close attention to detail is very evident throughout, even down to the subtle earthy tones and shades used for maximising natural lighting. Many fine architectural period features remain, enhancing its distinguished classic elegance, such as the spectacular stone cantilevered staircase and ribbed vaulted ceilings.

With the inclusion of a bespoke, handcrafted designer kitchen, and luxurious bathroom suites, a sophisticated and stylish blend of modern day practical living and contemporary chic combines well with the character of a bygone era.

It’s situated just five and a half miles south east of Bath, and is set in landscaped parkland offering panoramic views overlooking the River Avon and its most stunning valley. Enchanting private and landscaped grounds of approximately 2.4 acres extend to the River Avon – which has riparian rights.

As a bonus, there are two garages and sweeping driveway parking, and those seeking extra storage will be pleased to see that the cellar offers plenty of space, which could be the ideal area for a growing wine collection.

Warleigh Manor House is a truly outstanding and exceptional country residence occupying the major wing of this magnificent Grade-II* listed building. We truly envy the next owner, whoever that may end up being.

Invite us over for tea and Danish pastries to enjoy in your new Scandi abode, won’t you?

Pritchards, 11 Quiet Street, Bath 01225 466225; www.pritchards-bath.co.uk

P R O P E R T Y A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

WHY USE AN ESTATE AGENT TO SELL YOUR APARTMENT?

M

Peter Greatorex from THE APARTMENT COMPANY explains why using an estate agent reaps dividends

ost people use an estate agent of some sort to sell their apartment and there are plenty of reasons for doing so. Selling requires good preparation. It’s also stressful, time consuming and a world of mind-boggling laws, processes and property knowledge. A good agent can be critical to reducing stress levels and securing the best possible price in a timely scale. Find a good one, and their fee is worth every penny.

Here are a few reasons why you should always instruct an agent.

Firstly, local property knowledge is something owners won’t have. Being Bath’s apartment specialist for example, we have a real understanding of how the local market is performing, how apartments sell, who buys them, how best to market them to that target audience, why they will sell and how much something is realistically worth in those conditions.

Agents also have a good pool of serious

registered buyers - but always look out for those who can provide plenty of apartment buyers. 100 per cent of our buyers are looking for apartments so we have a substantial number on our database.

Negotiating with buyers is not for the fainthearted, and something agents are highly trained in doing. They are the best equipped to negotiate on your behalf to get the best possible result.

A good estate agent will keep an eye on everybody’s involvement in the process, from others in the chain through to solicitors.

Remember, our job is to manage the sales process from beginning to end to ensure a smooth sale for you.

Experience is also key. Agents have sold hundreds of properties so know how to achieve the best results for owners.

We always recommend sellers don’t conduct viewings themselves. This is simply because it tends to make buyers uncomfortable, risking putting them off altogether. Agents are in the

best position to arrange the viewings, conduct them and answer any questions. They will always update you afterwards as to how the viewing went.

Estate agents have the expertise to market an apartment properly, promoting them to the widest possible audience anywhere in the world, both online and offline. This includes major portals, an interactive website, national and local media, for sale boards, mobile phone alerts and so on.

For more advice visit our blog at www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk/blog.html Sales: 01225 471144 Lettings: 01225 303870 www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk

Westside Design Bespoke Kitchen Makers Since 1983 Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5EQ info@westsidedesign.co.uk

advertisin g feature p r o p e r t y

Step up the property ladder with Part-exchange at Crest Nicholson’s Vicarage Fields Stunning homes in a rural haven await at Crest Nicholson’s Vicarage Fields

L

ying in the picturesque heart of UK’s smallest city is Crest Nicholson’s rural haven, Vicarage Fields.

Offering a traditional collection of two, three and four bedroom homes, there is something for everyone, from first-time buyers to growing families and downsizers.

With Crest Nicholson’s VIP Part Exchange scheme, buyers at Vicarage Fields can enjoy a stress-free move to their new home.

Crest Nicholson becomes your chain free cash buyer offering you full market value for your current home and guiding you every step of the way, with regular updates and professional guidance throughout. With VIP Part Exchange, Crest Nicholson will even pay your agents’ fees and cover the cost of your removals.

Two, three and four bedroom homes at Vicarage Fields offer luxurious comfort, yet remain architecturally mindful of the rural surroundings. Each home is fitted with a beautiful Moores Definitive Kitchen, complete with integrated Bosch appliances. The interior décor is impeccably designed, with sleek,

sophisticated features ideal for modern living.

The three-bedroom Elsenham at Vicarage Fields offers families generous living space with patio doors leading onto the garden. A spacious kitchen/dining room is perfect for entertaining guests, while the three bedrooms and master en-suite make this house a home for the whole family.

With views of the rolling Somerset countryside, Vicarage Fields is well placed for residents to enjoy the great outdoors in rural Wells. Keward Brook runs through the development and a wildlife corridor winds across the site.

Vicarage Fields benefits from superb local amenities just a short walk away. Residents can wander into nearby Wells in ten-minutes, a city home to several excellent schools.

Wells Cathedral School, Stoberry Park and St Cuthbert’s Church of England Infant and Junior School are all close by, making this a fantastic area for growing families.

The charming city of Wells has a brilliant community feel, and is a popular tourist attraction due to its historical character. With a magnificent cathedral, a medieval palace

and traditional narrow cobbled streets, Wells has an abundance of attractions to keep the family entertained. The bustling city centre, just a short walk from Vicarage Fields, has a wide range of shops, restaurants and other amenities.

Two, three and four bedroom homes are available at Vicarage Fields now from £270,000.

Pop in to the Sales & Marketing Suite to visit the show homes, open daily from 10am to 5pm. For more: www.crestnicholson.com, email Vicaragefields@crestnicholson.com or call 01749 600864.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 131

SERVICES GUIDE

GARDENING

THE CLASSIC GARDENER

GUIDE to SERVICES in the

CITY

TOPIARY PLANTS POTS ORNAMENTS FURNITURE LEADING GROWERS OF TOPIARY IN THE SOUTH WEST

SALE NOW ON

WEST KINGTON, BATH SN14 7JQ OPEN TUES, THURS, SAT 10-4:30 EMAIL TOPIARY@CLASSICGARDENER.CO.UK OR CALL 01249 783880 WWW.CLASSICGARDENER.CO.UK

HOUSEKEEPING

Sparkling Matters Distinctive Housekeeping

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL THE BATH LIFE TEAM ON 01225 475800

www.bathhousekeeping.com 01225 292141 | 07977 563167 info@sparklingmatters.com

STONE SPECIALISTS

NORTON MASONRY LTD Stonework Specialists & General Builders

Repairs, Restoration Alteration of Stone Buildings New Build Stone Cleaning Stone Carving Fireplaces

38 LONG BARNABY, MIDSOMER NORTON, RADSTOCK BA3 2TZ

Tel/Fax: 01761 419422 Fax: 01761 232480 Mobile: 07901 712232 / 07899 927276

Email: nortonmasonryltd@hotmail.co.uk

www.nortonmasonryltd.co.uk

Tel: 01225 462688 / 07968 697091 Email: Julian@bathstonemasons.co.uk

Over 30 Years Experience

www.bathstonemasons.co.uk CONTRACTOR

2

d 197

lishe

Estab

D R Vowles & Son Ltd are highly reputable roofing contractors based in Bath, Somerset. We provide premier roofing services for residential, commercial and industrial clients with properties throughout the south west.

For more information please call Liz today

01225 425232

Upper Weston Farm, Weston, BATH BA1 4HL

drvowlesandson.co.uk

SERVICES GUIDE

HOLIDAY RENTALS

DATING AGENCY

Looking to find that special someone?

Caroline Crowther is a truly local personal introduction agency helping you meet someone new in your area. We offer a long term personal service until you find your perfect match.

60+ luxury properties for lets 2 nights to 5 months Holidays – For business – Friends & family – Temporary accommodation during renovation/relocation

For a professional and personal service call

01934 744788

or

0800 180 4788

Contact: 01225 482 225 | alexa@bathholidayrentals.com www.bathholidayrentals.com Offering 4 & 5 star holiday rentals since 2006

GARDEN SERVICES

www.carolinecrowther.com

PLUMBING AND HEATING

To advertise here call

A family run business, installing, servicing and repairing boilers and heating systems in Bath for 25 years.

Landlords Gas Safety Inspections also undertaken

✆ 01225 475800

For Special Gardens Quality Garden Care and Development

Accredited Installer

(by M.A.C. Gardening Services)

Established 20 years Bath based company 01225 336556 or 07833 351568 email: michael.cuff25@btinternet.com www.macgardeningbath.co.uk

ALLERGY TESTING

MADDISON plumbing heating & gas services ltd.

T 01225 837025 E steve.maddison@virgin.net maddisonplumbing.co.uk

PONDS AND AQUATICS

ALLERGY TESTING Feeling unwell? May I help you?

ARE YOU FIT INSIDE AND OUT?

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Headaches & migraine, tiredness & fatigue, weight problems, eczema or other skin problems, asthma, catarrh & sinus congestion, IBS & digestive disorders, anxiety & depression.

If you suffer with any of the above complaints, an hour’s test could change your life!

For your nearest tester please contact Cindy on 07747 800097 or 01934 824056, or email allergytesting@churchviews.co.uk

Now testing at Lansdown Clinic, Bath BA1 5EE www.allergytest.co.uk

✆ 01225 475800

Richard Brook POND & AQUATIC SYSTEMS

DESIGN • CONSTRUCTION • CLEANING • MAINTENANCE BLANKET WEED SOLUTIONS AND MORE T: 07834 973945 E: richard.brook9@btinternet.com

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Luxury & local

JEWELLERY

The most sophisticated audience is just a call away

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DECORATING

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WE BUY Gold, Silver & Platinum in any form or condition.

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Nigel Dando

Tel: 01225 352437 07894 210446 Fax: 01225 350429

11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk

Member of Painting, Decorating Association

B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

S

tar of Homes Under the Hammer, Martin Roberts is launching the UK’s first Achieve Expo next month at Bath Assembly Rooms, to which 5,000 people are rumoured to attend. Expect top celebrities to take to the stage at the health and wellness event, including Frank Bruno, Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Ruby Wax, who will deliver interactive talks regarding nutrition, fitness, mindfulness and motivation. Here, Martin tells us more about the expo, his love of Bath, and his hidden party tricks…

I decided to launch a never-been-donebefore health and wellness expo in Bath…

Not only is Bath my home city, but it’s got a history of health and wellbeing – the perfect location for the Achieve Expo – that will inspire people to better their health, wealth and happiness.

Expect world-class speakers to attend…

Everyone from Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Ruby Wax to Frank Bruno, Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards and Ella Mills of Deliciously Ella, will educate and entertain. We’ll also have over 50 exhibitors there from the world of health.

It all came about due to an unexpected side effect of my time on ITV’s I’m a Celebrity...

I saw significant improvements in my health and appearance after the show. I lost two stone in weight and cured myself of lifelong asthma. So I decided to bring together people who could inspire others to make small changes in their own lives, that could have impactful results.

I have a very enjoyable way of keeping fit…

I do a lot of walking with my three dogs. One is a two-year-old Labradoodle who would be happy if walks lasted all day. I swim and I cycle too.

I’m busy with TV work at the moment…

I’m still filming Homes Under the Hammer, and I’m developing some new TV ideas too. One is for kids, and one for a new property show. I’m also very excited to be launching my new illustrated children’s book series The Villes this autumn, and I’ve just released two new property books – Making Money from Property, and The Property Auction Guide. There will also be a DVD masterclass out before Christmas.

I live in the same village on the outskirts of Bath that I’ve lived in for the past 30 years…

I love this area and never want to move. Arriving by train, I never cease to be bowled over by the beauty of the place. It’s vibrant too – a fun place to go shopping, and also out at night. I love the fact that people travel from all over the world to visit a place I’m lucky enough to actually live in.

138 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

MARTIN ROBERTS The Homes Under the Hammer star on celebrity friends, jungle life and climbing Kilimanjaro The city has changed rather significantly over the years…

The SouthGate redevelopment was the most substantial thing to happen in the past 15 years.

The first impression as you arrived by train used to be horrendous. It was a 1960s planning disaster that let the whole city down. Now it’s glorious. As for the rest of the city, it remains one of the most architecturally majestic places on our planet.

My favourite places in which to grab a bite to eat are…

Hall & Woodhouse – it’s the perfect mix of restaurant and bar – and, for a special treat, Menu Gordon Jones is quite simply one of the best restaurants I’ve ever eaten in. As for shops, I love the eclectic mix the city has to offer.

My favourite local view would have to be…

The one of the city from Alexandra Park just above Bear Flat.

Something that not many people know is…

I starred in an advert for Vidal Sassoon that was broadcast across America for a year. It became so famous they did a parody of it on Saturday Night Live.

My proudest moment, professionally is...

Presenting Homes Under the Hammer, which, 15 years, 23 series, and over 1,250 programmes later, still manages to attract a huge audience every day.

And my best personal moment was…

Climbing Kilimanjaro for the NSPCC and filming it for Wish You Were Here at the same time. I also met my wife on that trip, so very special all round!

My party trick is…

I can recite all the poems of Hilaire Belloc from memory. ‘There was a boy whose name was Jim; his friends were very good to him’.

And my all-time favourite spot in Bath is…

The tiny square just off Abbey Courtyard [Abbey Green] that has one huge tree in it. That’s my favourite and, of course, I give the tree a big hug every time I pass!

As Bath Life’s 15-year anniversary issue is coming up, I’d like to congratulate you!

It feels as if it’s been part of the city’s fabric for much, much longer. If you showed me an etching of Jane Austen reading a copy, I wouldn’t be surprised!

If I could change one thing about Bath...

It would be the road system around the train and bus stations. I wonder if trams would work?

I’d speed-build another 5,000 underground car parking spaces and pedestrianise the whole of the city centre too.

Achieve Expo takes place 14 – 15 October at Bath Assembly Rooms. For more, and to book, visit www.achieve.co.uk or call 01225 463362